The Theunissen born-and-bred centre-back played a vital part in Sundowns Carling Knockout Cup semi-final win against Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein on Sunday.

Broos said he is more than delighted to have the important player back in defence. “You know, first of all, I was very happy that Mothobi played again for Sundowns,” said Broos about the former Highlands Park player.

“He was injured for a long time, and if you see the things he did in the past for Bafana Bafana, I think I’m very happy. I don’t think I’m telling you that I’m very happy that he’s back.

“Maybe he’s not the finest, biggest, most talented player of South Africa, but he was so important for us in the past games. So it was also a loss that he wasn’t in Congo because that is the player who can help us in such games.

“So again, I’m very happy that he’s back. I’m very happy that he played for Sundowns in the last few games. He has the feeling of the games, and you will see again, as you’ve seen already in the past, how important he is for us.”

Meanwhile, on Monday the Stellenbosch FC midfielder Devin Titus was called up to the squad following an injury to the Cypress-based Mihlali Mayambela. Broos added that Titus was the perfect player to step up to the role in the absence of Mayambela.

Devin Titus and Lebohang Mabotja. Photo: Morgan Piek

“When you see the performances from Devin and with Mihlali Mayambela injured, I don’t see another player who can replace him.

“He has had a very strong season. He scores, he’s very quick. He can dribble a player. So he’s a dangerous player. Yeah, I think you can’t say anything bad about the choice of Devin Titus. So again, I hope if I need him he will help us.

“I’m sure of it because he has a certain talent and he can eliminate another player from scoring. So yeah, he can help us if we need him.”

Friday’s qualifier between Uganda and South Africa in Kampala kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg