Coach expects best for good Fortune
Maritzburg United player has been excellent this season
MARITZBURG United midfield maestro Fortune Makaringe has been a vital cog for the Team of Choice this season and his coach Fadlu Davids is not surprised by his Bafana Bafana call-up.
Bafana will lock horns against Nigeria in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier on Saturday at 3pm.
The Super Eagles are at the summit of the table with nine points, while Bafana are on eight points after four matches.
Bafana has been hit by a number of injuries, especially in midfield.
Dean Furman, Kamohelo Mokotjo and Bongani Zungu are all out injured.
Makaringe might be thrown into the deep end against Nigeria to fill the void left by the injured players.
Davids is delighted about Makaringe’s call-up.
“We know that Fortune has had a good season. He got his third assist (last Friday against Highlands Park). Last season, he played as a deep-lying play-maker, but he is now operating in a different role. He plays more as number 8 and that is why he is making a lot of assists.
“He has so much potential despite the team not doing well. We need his quality to lift the younger guys now. Although he is young, he has experience,” said Davids.
The Team of Choice lost Lebohang Maboe who was a pivot in the middle of the park last season. Maboe signed for Mamelodi Sundowns.
Makaringe has really stepped up since the departure of Maboe.
“I’m really pleased to see him getting a Bafana call-up. He deserves it fully and let’s hope he will continue to do well,” Davids said.
Bafana are looking to make it a double over Nigeria. Last year, they achieved an historical victory by beating the Super Eagles for the first time in a competitive match.
Makaringe is not fazed by the might of the Super Eagles.
“Football is football, but we are not scared of them, although we need to be cautious. There’s nothing to fear. The fact that they are good enough – we are also good enough. There’s a lot at stake for us,” Makaringe said.
The diminutive midfielder is looking forward to the challenge ahead.
“I’m really excited to be in the Bafana team. This shows that if you continue to consistently work hard you are bound to reap the rewards for your effort. For me and the team this is really great. The call-up came at the right time. I’ve been working hard all the time.
“It is every sportsman’s dream to represent their country. The Bafana call-up should always make you happy. It doesn’t matter how it comes.”