Mamelodi Sundowns have seemingly turned down the idea of having split squads to compete in the African Football League (AFL) and other competitions together.
The Brazilians’ invitation to play in the AFL has been under question, as the Premier Soccer League (PSL) is yet to publicly endorse their participation, despite the South African Football Association (SAFA) showing support towards the inaugural African Super League.
The main concern for Sundowns is that their fixtures in the AFL clash with the start of the Carling Knockout Cup and the PSL were reportedly critical of allowing postponements, including league games, to accommodate the Tshwane giants’ Super League participation.
Reports suggested that the Brazilians could split their squad into two groups, one in the AFL and the other in the remaining competitions, in order to not compromise the fixtures that are already out.
However, Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has dismissed the idea of splitting squads, saying that he hopes the situation does not get to those compromises. Mokwena believes the Tshwane giants must have the best squad representing the team in all competitions.
“I hope it doesn’t come to that, my hope is that we’re able to always put out the best team on the pitch and of course to make sure that all of us are available to be able to assist and support the players during the 90 minutes,” Mokwena said at the Carling Knockout Cup launch.
Mokwena further stated that the club had a squad of 36 last season and all 35 players were used without any splits.
He also added that the team does give players game-time under normal circumstances. There are reports that Sundowns have been given the go ahead by the PSL to move some of their fixtures which clashes with their African Football League schedule.
The PSL has reportedly called an urgent Board of Governors meeting for Friday, with the Brazilians’ AFL participation believed to be high on the agenda.
