Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says vice-captain Percy Tau asked not to be included in the final 23-man squad set to lock horns against Congo Brazzaville in upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Broos explained that Tau, who plays for Egyptian giants Al Ahly, asked him directly not to be called up due to personal issues.
“The fact that he is not on the squad right now is because of personal issues. He said, ‘Coach, please don’t call me. I’m not ready to come because of personal issues.’ So what can I say to him? Tell him no, ‘you have to come’ and then he is not ready for it?,” Broos said.
The Belgian tactician added that Tau may need to consider finding another team where he can be happier and face fewer problems.
"Maybe he has to look for another team to play where he will play and be happier and where there are fewer problems. So that we at least have the well-known Percy Tau from a few years ago."
Broos praised Tau’s talent and expressed hope for his future contributions to the national team.
“I hope so, because we know the qualities of Percy. They can help us a lot and he can do more for the national team I’m sure of that.”
Tau was also not included in Bafana’s Afcon qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan last month, with Broos stating the attacker was not ready to re-join the team because of his lack of game at Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
Tau also came under heavy criticism for his performances on social media during Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire in which Bafana Bafana claimed a bronze medal.
IOL Sport