Miguel Cardoso responds to Kutlwano Letlhaku question after Mamelodi Sundowns teenage star missed Orlando Pirates match as Portuguese club make second bid

Kutlwano Letlhaku was excluded from the Mamelodi Sundowns matchday squad for the MTN8 semi-final, second leg against Orlando Pirates at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

This comes a few days after an unnamed Portuguese club reportedly returned to table another offer for the midfielder.

With rumours swelling that Letlhaku was left out as he focused on the proposed move, Masandawana coach Miguel Cardoso explains why he did not select the 19-year-old.

“The other day, I listened to some coach, I don’t know who it was, but he went to Mr. [Gianni] Infantino and asked him if we can put 20 players on the bench like in the [Club] World Cup, or bring all the squad,” said Cardoso as per iDiski Times.

“You cannot ask me about Thapelo Maseko and make a drum out of that, and then ask me about Kutlwano [Lethlaku], and make a drum out of Kutlwano, because there’s someone that needs to stay out. 

“I cannot bring [Siyabonga] Mabena. If not Mabena would not be on the bench you would be asking me about Mabena. 

“So, it seems that there’s always a question, and I’m not taking it personal. I’m just [explaining], but even the people and the fans, they are always relating with what we didn’t do. It is impossible to… [play everyone]," adde the former Esperance coach. 

“Kutlwano played on Wednesday in the first 11. Someone… Pitso played first 11 and today he is not on the bench. But it is not because they are not on the bench that we don’t trust them.

"No, no! It’s just because I have to take 18 and I have really to just take 18. I cannot take more. Otherwise, they would be all inside."

Letlhaku is one of the Sundowns players who have attracted interest from overseas clubs.

Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Khuliso Mudau are pushing for moves away from Masandawana.

However, Cardoso has given assurances that Thapelo Maseko will not be going to Europe as suggested by transfer rumours. 

Sundowns prepare to visit Kaizer Chiefs for Wednesday's Premier Soccer League clash at FNB Stadium.

It is to be seen if Letlhaku will make Masandawana's matchday squad as they seek to recover from the MTN8 elimination.