‘He can start afresh’ – Pirates legend speaks on Saleng’s situation

Orlando Pirates legend Edward Motale says Monnapule Saleng has an opportunity to get his groove back at Bafana Bafana.

The 26-year-old was recently named in Bafana’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad. Having last played a match in December, Saleng’s situation at Pirates has become one of the biggest topic in SA football in recent weeks.

Motale hopes that the winger can help his country as they face Egypt in the first round of CHAN qualifiers later this week.

“I’ve no doubt that Saleng would be key for Bafana Bafana in the CHAN, the Pirates legend told FARPost. The only thing I’m not sure of is how this has affected him mentally.”

“I just wish someone would deal with that to boost his mental strength. That’s my fear about Saleng.”

“But I’m happy they have a professional set-up and a coach like Helman Mkhalele who understands this. He understands these things and will know how to deal with Saleng,” he added.

Pirates legend happy to have Saleng in the Bafana squad

“He needs to be told that he’s here; this is the national team. Forget about what is happening around you. Just focus on the game. Play your game. If I was a coach, those are the words I’d tell him. To say we didn’t call you here for the sake of it. We called you because we know what you’re capable of and know you can add value. This is his a healing stage for him,” Motale added.

He hoped that the Bafana Bafana call-up will restart Saleng’s season at Pirates.

“It’s a blessing this call-up; it’s gonna restart him and put him in a place where he can start afresh. It’s gonna help him too much.”

Can Monnapule Saleng bounce back?

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