Mashaba gets his players
THE intervention of Premier Soccer League chairman Dr Irvin Khoza has resulted in Premiership clubs agreeing to release players selected for the Under-23 national side.
Khoza has been speaking to various clubs behind the scenes, explaining the importance of South Africa qualifying and doing well at the 2012 London Olympics.
This resulted in Mamelodi Sundowns and Bloemfontein Celtic yesterday agreeing to release their players to leave with the Under-23s for Morocco tonight.
South Africa is one of eight countries that have qualified for the inaugural African Under-23 Championships finals.
The tournament, used by the Confederation of African Football to decide the three teams going to London, will see Shakes Mashaba's lads playing Ivory Coast in the opening match on Saturday.
Sundowns technical director Trott Moloto told Sowetan yesterday that they have released Sibusiso Khumalo and Jabulani Shongwe.
"Matthew Pattison is injured, which is why we cannot release Themba Zwane. We decided to give them an additional player in Sibusiso to ensure that Shakes has more options.
"We would like to thank Dr Khoza because he is the one who has been communicating with us throughout on this matter," said Moloto.
Celtic chief executive Khumbulani Konco said: "We have been in constant discussions with Dr Khoza on the release of players for the tournament in Morocco.
"Safa wanted Mulamowandau Mathoho and we have decided to release him. We wish them the best of luck and are confident they will qualify."
Khoza said: "It is important for all of us to support and embrace the Under-23 national side, which is why I had to speak to all the clubs whose players have been selected."
Safa president Kirsten Nematandani has also applauded the PSL clubs for showing their patriotism in releasing the players to go to Morocco.
Orlando Pirates striker Bongani Ndulula is out due to injury.
The Morocco-bound team includes:
Goalkeepers: Brilliant Khuzwayo (Royal Zulu), Boalefa Pule (SS United); Sage Lottering (Swallows), Brighton Mhlongo (Pirates);
Defenders: Thulani Hlatshwayo (Ajax), Sibusiso Mxoyane (Pirates), Siyabonga Zulu (Blackburn Rovers), Sibusiso Khumalo (Sundowns), Mulomowandau Mathoho (Celtic), Gladwin Shitolo (Jomo Cosmos);
Midfielders: Sameegh Doutie, Mandla Masango (Chiefs), Thami Sangweni (AmaZulu); Thandani Ntshumayelo (SS United), Jabulani Shongwe (Sundowns);
Strikers: Rodney Ramagalela (Leopards), Phumelelo Bhengu (Black Aces), Bhongolethu Jayiya (Wits) and Ryan Eugene (Santos).
Safa bosses were still finalising the squad at the time of going to press.