IF Vestri forward Silas Songani has made a bold claim about South African star Thibang Phete, who is currently revitalising his career at the Icelandic club.
The defender who can also play as a midfielder joined IF Vestri in March after almost ten months unattached. He had last played for GD Chaves in Portugal during the 2023/24 season.
In Portugal, Phete also played for a number of teams, including Grupo Tourizense, Vitoria SC and Belenenses.
Nevertheless, his move to the Iceland-based club is proving to be a masterstroke as it has given him a chance to rediscover himself. His teammate, Songani, has given him a glowing review, stating that he deserves a place in Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana.
Songani, a Zimbabwean national, is convinced Phete is now at his level best despite his initial struggles to acclimatise to Iceland’s freezing weather conditions.
WHAT SILAS SONGANI SAID SA STAR THIBANG PHETE
In an interview with FARPost, Songani said Bafana Bafana are missing out on what Phete has to offer. Phete is one of the overseas-based players that were called up by Broos in his first year at Bafana’s helm.
However, Phete fell out of favour. He last played for Bafana Bafana in November 2021 during FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“I was so happy since the day Phete was signed by Vestri because we are neighbours [South Africa and Zimbabwe],” Songani told FARPost.
“From the first day, l see him as my own brother, we are one. But at the time he came, it was tough because he was struggling a little bit with the weather conditions.
“Moreso, he did not have so much game time. Unlike what is said, it’s not easy here in Iceland. But I can tell you that he is now at his best. He is now in good shape.”
BAFANA BAFANA ARE MISSING ON FROM PHETE’S QUALITY SAYS SONGANI
The former Milano United FC player has played seven matches for IF Vestri with one assist under his belt.
Songani added: “It’s now evident because he is getting more game time. To be honest, he is a utility player, he can play in any position. He is helping us a lot and hopefully, the Bafana Bafana coach will call him back to the national team.
“From what I see and observe, he deserves it. Without any favouritism, he is the type of player that can walk into his national team. Phete is a baller and Bafana might be missing out.
“As one of the closest people to him, I always help him in the best possible way. We are always together even off the pitch,” added Songani.
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