Orlando Pirates’ involvement in Mbule’s recent journey has only added to the discussion, especially after his inclusion in the Africa Cup of Nations squad in Morocco.
Mbule was widely expected to remain in contention, but his omission has instead raised fresh questions around selection and consistency.
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BAFANA BAFANA STICK TO SELECTION RULES
Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Clifford Ngobeni has pointed to Mbule’s current situation at club level.
“You know, with the exclusion of Sipho Mbule from the latest squad, I think the coach has made his decision and that should be respected,” Ngobeni said via Soccer Laduma.
For Ngobeni, the issue is not about talent, but about rhythm and consistency. “The boy hasn’t been playing regularly at Pirates, and his form has taken a dip, so I think he needs more time on himself to work hard to get back to the national team,” he said.
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The timing, with the World Cup approaching, has only added to the noise around the decision. “It’s just unfortunate that the World Cup is coming and that’s why there’s so much buzz about him not being in the team,” he added. “But to be honest, he’s not doing well at the moment as he has not been getting enough game time at Orlando Pirates.”
Ngobeni made it clear what needs to change.
“In order for him to do well, he needs to get more game time, so he needs to start at club level first, work harder and get more minutes so that he can be chosen for Bafana Bafana,” Ngobeni said. “He is a great player, and I prefer a Sipho Mbule who is super fit,” concluded Ngobeni.
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