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Lyle Foster returns to action after battling mental health issues

Bafana Bafana striker Lyle Foster is back on the pitch after bravely prioritising his mental health and taking a break from the game.

Foster has been out of action since October as his club revealed that the player has mental health issues.

This was after Foster committed to the English Premier League side Burnley FC by signing a new long-term deal.

LYLE FOSTER MAKES HIS FIRST APPEARANCE SINCE OCTOBER

The goal-poacher was named on the matchday squad on Saturday as Burnley hosted Everton at Turf Moor Stadium. He was on the bench and was introduced at the beginning of the second half.

Foster had missed 10 matches in all competitions for The Clarets. He further missed out on representing Bafana Bafana in November for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The global showpiece will be held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

Lyle Foster in action for Burnley in Premier League
Lyle Foster

The former Orlando Pirates player has been a key player for the Premier League side after making eight appearances in all competitions. He has contributed towards five goals after netting three and providing two assists in the process.

Foster didn’t enjoy a good return as the team suffered their fourth defeat in six matches losing 2-0. In other matches, they registered a win and a draw respectively.

After 16 league matches played, Burnley find themselves in the relegation zone. They lay second from the bottom [19th] after accumulating eight points.

LYLE FOSTER TO MAKE IT AT AFCON FINALS?

The 23-year-old’s return has come at the right time just after national team coach Hugo Broos named his 50-man preliminary squad for the AFCON finals to be hosted in January 2024 in Ivory Coast.

Burnley coach Vincent Kompany had ruled out Foster to feature at AFCON saying he’s not ready for such a big tournament.

RELATED STORY: Lyle Foster takes break from football due to mental health concerns

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