PITSO MOSIMANE FIRES BACK OVER APPOLLIS FATIGUE CONCERNS: ‘THERE IS NO FATIGUE WITH US’ AS BAFANA PREPARE FOR KENYA CLASH

Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has made his position crystal clear regarding concerns surrounding Oswin Appollis’ workload, insisting that fatigue will not dictate his selection decisions as South Africa prepare for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying encounter against Kenya.

The coach's comments come amid growing discussions about Appollis’ reduced playing time at Orlando Pirates, where head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has recently explained that the winger is being carefully managed following a demanding period of football.

Appollis enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, establishing himself as one of the standout performers in South African football. His contributions for the Buccaneers also earned him recognition at national level, making him an important attacking option for Bafana Bafana.

However, his involvement in the Pirates starting XI has become less consistent this season, raising questions about his physical condition and whether he should be given additional recovery time before returning to regular action.

Ouaddou previously defended his approach, describing Appollis as one of South Africa’s most valuable attacking talents and emphasising that players need proper management to avoid exhaustion.

The Moroccan tactician made it clear that the decision to limit the winger’s minutes was not a reflection of his quality but rather a precautionary measure designed to protect him over a demanding season.

Mosimane, however, has offered a different perspective from the national team's standpoint.

Speaking during Thursday's media briefing ahead of Friday's meeting with Kenya, the Bafana coach explained that international football presents a different situation because national teams do not compete as frequently as clubs.

"We play once, right? So fatigue is not for me to manage it. Right? For me, it's to choose the best player who's around and who's available, okay?" Mosimane said.

The experienced coach further explained that he would not allow external opinions or concerns from club football to influence his responsibilities when selecting the national team.

He stressed that his priority remains identifying the strongest available players who can deliver positive results for the country.

Mosimane also made it clear that he respects the role of journalists and other football stakeholders but would not allow outside commentary to influence his technical decisions.

His position sends a strong message that national team selection will be based on availability, performance and what he believes is best for South Africa.

Meanwhile, attention is firmly shifting towards the upcoming encounter against Kenya at Orlando Amstel Arena, where Bafana will be looking to maintain their strong start in the AFCON qualifying campaign.

The Harambee Stars, coached by former Bafana striker Benni McCarthy, will present a significant challenge, particularly with experienced forward Michael Olunga expected to be an important figure in their attacking plans.

Mosimane has already acknowledged the threat posed by Olunga, comparing the striker's quality to that of Guinea's Serhou Guirassy.

With two important meetings against Kenya scheduled within four days, Mosimane will need to make carefully considered decisions regarding his starting eleven.

For Appollis, the situation presents another opportunity to demonstrate his importance to the national team.

Ultimately, Mosimane's message is straightforward: club-level workload concerns will not automatically determine who represents South Africa. If Appollis is available and considered the best option, the Bafana coach is prepared to use him as the country pursues another important international victory.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2121132366378770782?a=d08IrRvh7Nlr9jHsd_0&s=19