Nomvethe to reclaim top spot

SIYABONGA Nomvethe is sure to get his first call-up to Bafana Bafana in two years this week, but coach Pitso Mosimane could surprise many with some of his other choices.

The beleaguered national coach, whose future depends on good wins against Ethiopia and Botswana in the opening 2014 World Cup scrimmages at the start of next month, is turning to established players to ensure his tenure continues.

Mosimane is expected to name his squad on Thursday and his selection will assemble on Sunday after the final day of the season.

He is contemplating calling up Paulus Masehe of Free State Stars and Eleazar Rodgers of Santos for the two matches.

Masehe would be a surprise choice, but not unmerited after an outstanding season for Free State Stars.

The 28-year-old began his career as a striker at Mamelodi Sundowns, but finally earned higher recognition as a tough-tackling defensive midfielder with his team.

Masehe's teammate Mzikayise Mashaba, linked with a possible move to Kaizer Chiefs in the next weeks, is also in line to be named in the national squad.

Nomvethe will win his 80th cap, two years after his last appearance against France in Bloemfontein in the 2010 World Cup.

The 34-year-old Moroka Swallows striker will finish as the league's top scorer and is a shoo-in for the Player of the Season award.