Despite Burnley forward Lyle Foster's return to action following undisclosed mental health issues, he has been omitted from the South Africa 2024 Africa Cup of Nations squad.
The 23-year-old, who started in a Premier League match against Liverpool on Tuesday, has yet to be selected based on the recommendation of Burnley manager Vincent Kompany.
Kompany conveyed to South Africa coach Hugo Broos that, given the current circumstances, Lyle cannot undertake extensive travel and is not in a position to join the South African squad for the upcoming Cup of Nations. This decision follows Kompany's advice and prioritises Foster's well-being.
In another setback for Bafana Bafana, the national team, ahead of their Group E matches against Mali, Namibia, and Tunisia in the Ivory Coast, Strasbourg forward Lebo Mothiba will also be absent. The 27-year-old, known for his physical prowess, sustained a knee injury in a recent French Ligue 1 match, rendering him sidelined for several months.
Notably, Foster and Mothiba are the only South African players representing clubs in the top five European leagues. The squad adjustments reflect a consideration for the player's health and fitness, aligning with the recommendations of their respective club managers.
