TUESDAY, 12.30PM:
BAFANA Bafana midfied maestro Doctor Khumalo could miss the game against France in Lens on Saturday because of club commitments. Khumalo, who plays for Colombus Crew in the Major Soccer League in the US, is involved in the play-offs for his club against Tampa Bay.
National coach Clive Barker said he will only know on Wednesday if Khumalo will be available or not. This could mean that Bafana Bafana will play the match against France without two of their key players. Central defender Mark Fish was last week ruled out of the match because of an injury.
“It’s a blow to lose both Fish and Khumalo,” said Barker. “But let’s look at the possibilities. When one door closes another opens and the absence of these seasoned internationals means that two players knocking at the door will get a chance to stake a claim for a place in the team.”
He said Orlando Pirates defender Willem Jackson could come in Fish’s place and Manning Rangers fast running midfielder Clinton Larsen could come in the middle of the park.