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.
