Sabah FK defender Aden McCarthy has been named in the Bafana Bafana preliminary squad to face Kenya next month.
Bafana play Kenya in back-to-back Afcon qualifying matches, hoping to secure qualification for next year’s tournament.
On Friday evening, coach Pitso Mosimane named his 38-man preliminary squad for the two matches.
McCarthy, who only had one cap for Bafana, was one of the new names in Mosimane’s squad. This comes after the 22-year-old defender featured in four UEFA Champions League matches.
Speaking to a journalist after scoring against Borussia Dortmund, the former Kaizer Chiefs star paid tribute to fans and his former club.
“The best country in the world. You know, it’s my home, where I come from. I come from a massive team with a massive supporting group, you know. From home, that’s how I always know my people to be. I notice everything. I love my country and the people there. Ja, I appreciate all the support,” McCarthy said.
McCarthy has impressed since leaving Kaizer Chiefs in June, with his performances helping Sabah FK progress through the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds and into the competition’s main phase.
McCarthy named in Bafana squad
The young defender has continued to attract attention with his displays against some of Europe’s biggest clubs. He previously impressed against Manchester United at Old Trafford before scoring against Borussia Dortmund.
His latest goal further underlined his progress since leaving Naturena, as he continues to represent South Africa on the European stage.
It remains to be seen if Aden McCarthy can make the final Bafana squad.