As a precautionary measure, Mamelodi Sundowns star Peter Shalulile has been withdrawn from the Namibia squad against his will.
This was revealed by Namibia national team assistant coach Robert Nauseb during an exclusive interview with Sowetan on Thursday. Shalulile, the reigning Premier Soccer League footballer of the season, was drafted into the Brave Warriors’ team for the Cosafa Cup that will run from July 6-18 in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
Despite playing 39 games across all competitions in what was a successful 2020/21 season, his maiden one at Sundowns, Shalulile still wanted to feature in the Cosafa Cup, before being begged by the national team officials to sit this regional tournament out.
“We know he played a lot of football and he had a niggling ankle injury, so we decided to give him some time off. He wanted to be part of the group but we begged him to stay behind so that he’ll recuperate,’’ Nauseb said.
The 27-year-old Shalulile’s splendid first season at Chloorkop saw him net 22 goals on all fronts, having joined from Highlands Park at the beginning of the term.
Nauseb, who turned out for the likes of Kaizer Chiefs and Bloemfontein Celtic in his heyday, believes Shalulile’s best is yet to come. The 47-year-old couldn’t stop raving about the Brave Warriors skipper’s passion and dedication.
“The boy has just started. He’s going places, especially given his dedication to the game. Peter is passionate about football and he always gives his all and that’s why he’s reached this level, which I think is just a start,’’ said Nauseb.
Nauseb confirmed that Orlando Pirates’ Deon Hotto has also been excused from Cosafa Cup duty. Namibia are in Group C alongside Zimbabwe, Senegal and Mozambique.
“Hotto is another player we’re resting... he played a lot of games for Pirates as well. We’re positive we’ll do well but we respect our opponents,’’ said the Brave Warriors deputy coach.
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