Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has opened up on his fitness, which has resulted in him being out of contention for the Bafana Bafana AFCON squad.
Maela has only played three DStv Premiership matches for the Buccaneers this season.
The 31-year-old recently returned to action after recovering from a niggling groin in September. Before the injury, Maela had featured frequently in Hugo Broos‘ team.
Speaking during the recent Nedbank Cup last 32 draw in Sandton, Maela told the media he was raring to go ahead of the second round of the season.
INNOCENT MAELA HAPPY TO HAVE RECOVERED AND FULLY FIT
“Regarding my fitness, if you remember very well, before we went to the December break, I was already fit and making the match day squad. But obviously, I didn’t have the match fitness, and that is why I missed out on AFCON,” he said.
“But right now, my obligation is to remain healthy and fit, to make sure that I improve my fitness levels. I am training with the team full time and hopefully, I get to contribute and help the team further in the second part of the season,” explained Maela.
WHAT MISSING OUT ON AFCON MEAN FOR THE ORLANDO PIRATES CAPTAIN
On not being able to return in time for the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, Maela had this to say: “I have been part of the national team for years now and playing a major tournament is always nice.
“Especially if you have done the head work, qualifying with the team. But look I always believe in God and I believe in God’s grace and his plans.
“As soon as I found out that I won’t be making the team, I just said, it’s your will, my lord, and everything that you have planned for me shall happen.
“Look, it was disappointing, of course. I am at an age where you appreciate all these major tournaments, but it is what it is, and I trust God’s plans fully.”
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