Matthew Booth Hoping That Steven Pienaar Recovers For South Africa

Pienaar's presence for Bafana is vital, according to the defender...

May 29, 2009 9:38:12 AM

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South Africa defender Matthew Booth will breathe a sigh of relief if he sees Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar grace Wembley for the FA Cup final against Chelsea this Saturday.

Pienaar suffered a hamstring injury following Everton's win over Fulham in the final round of Premier League matches and was reported as doubtful for Wembley.

A fit Pienaar for Everton means that the midfielder should be available for the South African squad of 23 for the Confederations Cup, which will take place in June.

"There will definitely be a great sigh of relief if he appears on the field on Saturday," said Bafana defender, Matthew Booth.

South Africa already face difficulties in assembling a full strength team, with Lucas Thwala (calf) and Surprise Moriri (knee) battling injuries.

“Our confidence has already taken a knock with the two players who were forced to pull out. Replacements were added to the team, but we really would have liked Lucas and Surprise to stay,” said Booth.

The World Cup hosts are also short staffed in the striking department, with Mabhuti Khanyeza and Benni McCarthy omitted from the squad.

“It all comes down to Pienaar now that Benni McCarthy is not in the group. It would really be a huge setback if his injury keeps him out of the team,” said Booth.

The next few weeks will be of the utmost importance to the South African squad, with the Confederations Cup just over two weeks away.

Peter Pedroncelli, Goal.com

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