Bafana Bafana coach, Stuart Baxter, has included Dutch-based midfielder Thulani Serero in his 23-man squad for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Nigeria on 17 November at 15:00.
Bafana Bafana won the first leg away to Nigeria 2-0 in June last year. Serero makes his return to the side after an absence of almost a year.
The 28-year-old was initially excluded by the South African Football Association (SAFA) when he wanted to be guaranteed game time with call-ups. Baxter says he has already smoked a peace pipe with Serero.
“Thulani indicated strongly to people within the association that he wanted to make himself available for selection. I have obviously checked on his form he’s been playing quite well, he’s been playing a lot at a good level. I obviously spoke to him that we are both on the same page and I needed to know from him that his availability was unconditional. I need to be convinced that his availability was unconditional he assured it was,” says Baxter.
Bafana Bafana was held to a disappointing goalless draw away to the Seychelles after winning 6-0 at home against the same opponents during the Group E AFCON qualifiers.
Bafana were also held to a goalless draw against Libya in September during their home match.
Bafana are second in their qualifying group, one point behind Nigeria with 8 points.
