Monnapule Saleng finds himself in the Bafana Bafana camp with players he tormented with his trickery, such as Rushine De Reuck and Aubrey Modiba, in the MTN8 semifinals, writes Tlotlisang Mollo.
The Orlando Pirates winger, who also humiliated Andile Jali and Mothobi Mvala, says De Reuck and Modiba are happy with the skill set he brings to Bafana Bafana.
“It’s a good thing because now we’re representing the same team, our country Bafana Bafana,” Saleng told Bafana Bafana media officer Romy Titus.
SALENG IN SCINTILLATING FORM
“They are happy for the skill set I bring to Bafana, and having them around is good for the national team. I’m quick, and my reaction is top.”
The speedy winger opened up on his scintillating Orlando Pirates’ form. The former Free State Stars winger attributed his recent form with Pirates to hard work.
“I keep pushing myself. My teammates, especially the experienced players around me, push me,” he told Bafana Bafana media officer Romy Titus.
“To use speed as a winger, you have to take players on. I think the way I play is because of my hard work from training. I grew up as a hard worker.”
Saleng believes he has brought a positive vibe to the national team camp ahead of Thursday and Sunday’s friendlies against Mozambique and Angola at Mbombela Stadium.
He said all players in camp were focused on delivering the goods for the nation, not club interests.
Saleng said his Bafana Bafana teammates have welcomed him warmly in camp.
LAST BAFANA CAP
“I think being in camp is something everyone would be happy with. I am happy, and even the guys are happy for me,” he said.
The speedy winger last earned a Bafana call-up at the 2021 edition of the COSAFA Cup held in South Africa.
Saleng has scored five goals in eight games in all competitions this season. His goal in the 1-0 win over AmaZulu in the final secured the Buccaneers the MTN8 trophy.
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