Aaron Mokoena: I’m Not Retiring

Aaron Mokoena admits he is disappointed with the fact that he was dropped from the Bafana Bafana squad without an explanation from the coach Pitso Mosimane.

‘Mbazo’ responded to the media’s call to clear the air on how he feels, as captain of the team, to have been omitted from the squad to play Egypt on Saturday.

He said: “I think one thing that’s important that I have to say is a coach’s decision is final. We can question and raise opinions but he is the boss and it is not about individuals. It is about the country. I’m not bitter, I’m not angry but yes I am disappointed. I’m disappointed with the way the matter was handled… it is disappointing that I didn’t get a phone call from the coach. He obviously has his reasons and we have to respect it… but there is no clarification,” Mokoena said.

Bafana’s highest capped player of all time, with 107 caps, suggested a phone call from Mosimane could put him at ease after being axed from the team.

“I would say a telephone call or communication, let me put it that way. Communication is vital. Communicating makes life easier, so that’s why I’m saying (I’m disappointed) with how the matter was handled. I know it could have been different… I have been in the game for a long time to understand you can be dropped or sit on the bench. It is part of the game and it is up to you how you take,” ‘Mbazo’ said.

On previous occasions, though, Mokoena admits the coach explained why he dropped him against the USA last year and left him on the bench the entire 90 minutes against Kenya in February.

“Yes, USA he did (explain) and against Kenya he spoke to me and Kagisho (Dikgacoi)… to be fair it was a confidential meeting,” he said.

“My relationship with the coach is very good as far as I’m concerned… I was maybe the only player to call Pitso and wish him luck when he was appointed,” he continued.

Despite this latest setback in his international career, the Portsmouth skipper says he is not throwing in the towel and he is available for Bafana’s future international matches.

“I have to make it clear; I’m not retiring from the national team. I’m still available for the national team and as for the armband the coach will make the decision.

“I hope I will talk to Pitso, but I think it is clear by saying I’m available for the nation. But for now let’s respect the fact that the coach made a decision,” Mokoena added.