Stuart Baxter: Thulani Serero has been given a second chance

Bafana Bafana coach Stuart Baxter has explained midfielder Thulani Serero's return to the national team, saying that they are both on the same page regarding his role in the team.

Serero has been included in the 23-man squad to face Nigeria on Saturday, November 17 in a 2019 Caf African Cup of Nations qualifier at the FNB Stadium.

“I have spoken to Thulani, and we are on the same page,” Baxter was quoted as saying by IOL.

Serero voiced his unhappiness after sitting on the bench in a 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Senegal last year and later demanded to get guarantees for game time under the English-born coach.

Serero's demands eventually led him to being banned from representing his country. 

“His return is unconditional, and he has assured me of this. I was delighted to hear that,” added the coach.

“I know what happened in the past, but he gets a second chance with me. It’s not open the door and close it like an old Wild West saloon,” he continued.

“It matters what sort of environment we have around the national team – the code of conduct the public wants from the national team. He is a national team and an impact player,” concluded the English coach.

Moreover, the Soweto-born attacking midfielder has been roped in to boost Baxter's midfield options with the likes of Bongani Zungu, Dean Furman, Sibusiso Vilakazi as well as Kamohelo Mokotjo ruled out with injuries.

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