PERSEVERANCE has finally paid off for Thuso Phala, who attributed his inclusion in Bafana Bafana eight years after turning professional as reward for working hard.
Gordon Igesund roped Phala into the squad to play Zambia's Chipolopolo during the Nelson Mandela Challenge at Soccer City on November 14.
It is the first time Phala has received a call-up to the senior national team after being part of Amabinneplaas, the "development national team" in the past.
"I thought you were kidding when you told me that I have been included in the Bafana Bafana squad, what a pleasant surprise," Phala said yesterday
"I have been working hard this season, training hard on my own to ensure I'm in the best of shapes. My work rate has improved tremendously.
"It is always a great feeling to be selected to play for your country. I appreciate the recognition I have received from coach Gordon and his technical staff.
"A big thank you to (Platinum Stars) coach Cavan Johnson, the technical staff, management and the rest of the players for their support.
"This is a great motivation for me. If I'm selected, I will do my best to contribute to the success of my team. We have a great team that I have no doubt will do well against Zambia.
"It will be a tough one because Zambia are the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions."
Phala started his professional career at Dikwena in 2004 when they were still known as Silver Stars.
He has been in terrific form lately. He scored a brace when Stars hammered Free State Stars in an Absa Premiership match at home two weeks ago.
Phala has also played for Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.
He is the son of prominent soccer administrator Susan Phala, who is in charge of events management for Dikwena.
Phala's hard work pays off
PERSEVERANCE has finally paid off for Thuso Phala, who attributed his inclusion in Bafana Bafana eight years after turning professional as reward for working hard.
Gordon Igesund roped Phala into the squad to play Zambia's Chipolopolo during the Nelson Mandela Challenge at Soccer City on November 14.
It is the first time Phala has received a call-up to the senior national team after being part of Amabinneplaas, the "development national team" in the past.
"I thought you were kidding when you told me that I have been included in the Bafana Bafana squad, what a pleasant surprise," Phala said yesterday
"I have been working hard this season, training hard on my own to ensure I'm in the best of shapes. My work rate has improved tremendously.
"It is always a great feeling to be selected to play for your country. I appreciate the recognition I have received from coach Gordon and his technical staff.
"A big thank you to (Platinum Stars) coach Cavan Johnson, the technical staff, management and the rest of the players for their support.
"This is a great motivation for me. If I'm selected, I will do my best to contribute to the success of my team. We have a great team that I have no doubt will do well against Zambia.
"It will be a tough one because Zambia are the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions."
Phala started his professional career at Dikwena in 2004 when they were still known as Silver Stars.
He has been in terrific form lately. He scored a brace when Stars hammered Free State Stars in an Absa Premiership match at home two weeks ago.
Phala has also played for Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.
He is the son of prominent soccer administrator Susan Phala, who is in charge of events management for Dikwena.
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