Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

After initially calling for the nationalisation of Bafana Bafana, the government says the refusal of clubs to release players makes it difficult for the development of a solid team for the 2010 World Cup.

Makhenkesi Stofile, Minister of Sports and Recreation, said they cannot take a back seat and watch Bafana Bafana failing to get all the selected players.

To this end, Stofile said other African countries like the government of Cameroon had to intervene to ensure the Indomitable Lions became a well oiled machine.

"We cannot just fold our arms," said Stofile, adding that they were well aware that the selection and preparation of Bafana Bafana was the responsibility of Safa.

This comes after Stofile was roasted by many South Africans following his call to nationalise Bafana Bafana for the World Cup.

"The matter has been blown out of proportion. Neither the LOC nor the government is responsible for the development of the national team.

"Yes, we are jittery and we are worried."

Stofile said it was the desire of the South African government to see a well prepared Bafana Bafana qualifying for the knockout stages of the World Cup.

He added that the club's failure to release players made it impossible for coach Carlos Alberto Parreira to develop a winning side as he could not have a consistent team.

"All the previous Bafana Bafana coaches struggled to do that.

"To achieve a strong team, we would have to isolate the players and provide them with the necessary resources."

While Stofile is satisfied with Bafana Bafana's display at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, he addded: "Why is it that the team that competed in Ghana is not the same that played recently. Inconsistency is not a way to develop the squad."