Sometimes his presence has the soothing effect of a silver lining, but more often than not these days Benni McCarthy’s presence in the Bafana Bafana squad is shrouded by a dark cloud of uncertainty.
On Monday, Bafana general manager Stanley ”Screamer” Tshabalala revealed the talented but enigmatic Porto striker is ”under observation” for a lingering ankle injury and a doubtful starter for the Nelson Mandela Cup game against Senegal in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.
”McCarthy spoke to coach Stuart Baxter,” said Tshabalala, ”and it appears he is receiving treatment for a troublesome ankle. We will know the verdict within 48 hours, but with the coach looking to have the entire squad here early, it’s already a problem.”
Tshabalala said a medical certificate will be required from Porto if McCarthy drops out of the Senegal game.
”The game is being played on a date designated by Fifa for international fixtures,” added the Bafana general manager, ”and we can expect full support from the international body in dealing with the issue.”
Tshabalala revealed that Supersport United striker Katlego Mphela is the likeliest replacement if McCarthy is not available.
”You know with Benni,” he added, ”we are not sure what the situation is.”
Baxter was confronted with another tricky situation when Greek champions Panathinaikos asked that central Bafana defender Nasief Morris be released for Bafana duty after playing in a cup fixture on Wednesday.
”The request was rejected,” said Tshabalala. ”It would have meant Morris only arriving in South Africa 24 hours before the Port Elizabeth game — and this was not acceptable.” — Sapa