Orlando Pirates player Monnapule Saleng with the ball Former Orlando Pirates defender Edward Motale has revealed his thoughts Bucs winger Monnapule Saleng’s (left) absence from the Soweto Giants lineup. Picture: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers
Former Orlando Pirates defender Edward Motale has revealed his thoughts on how current Bucs winger Monnapule Saleng’s absence from the Soweto Giants might affect the youngster.
Saleng has been strangely missing from the Pirates team in recent weeks, including playing no part on the recent Soweto Derby.
The player was last in action for Pirates on December 7 when they hosted Al Ahly, in a Caf Champions League match at Orlando Stadium which ended in a goalless draw.
The 26-year-old has not been reported as injured, and is believed to have not featured for Pirates due to undisclosed personal reasons.
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Despite his lack of game time for Pirates of late, Saleng has been called up to the Bafana Bafana squad for their African Nationas Championship (Chan) qualifier against Egypt on March 9.
The squad is made up of a number of players who have not seen action recently, as Helman Mkhalele aims to help SA qualify for the tournament.
The 58-year-old Motale who spent three years with Pirates in the 90s, said he was concerned about Saleng’s head might be affected with whatever is going on at his club.
“I’ve no doubt that Saleng would be key for Bafana Bafana in the CHAN. The only thing I’m not sure of is how this has affected him mentally,” Motale told FARPost.
“I just wish someone would deal with that to boost his mental strength. That’s my fear about Saleng.”
“He’s missed a lot of games in the CAF Champions League, the Soweto Derby and the clash against Sundowns. But that’s all in the past. The call-up offers him a chance to start afresh. He revealed what his words to Saleng would be if he were his coach.
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