Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has expressed his happiness after South Africa international Oswin Appollis failed to seal a move to North Africa.
The 23-year-old was tipped to leave Polokwane City for Algerian side MC Alger. Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs were also desperate to land the winger in their bid to strengthen the squad but it didn't materialise.
Broos is delighted that the attacker didn't get his wish to leave the country, insisting it could have negatively impacted him.
“I am disappointed that he didn’t move but I’m happy because if it was true he is going to Algiers,” the Belgian stated.
I am happy that Appollis is still in Mzansi – Broos
“I said to him in September when we were in camp, I know there’s money but it’s not the right team for you. So, for that, I am happy that he is still in Polokwane City. He will always play there which is a good thing and again you see what happens with guy [Khanyisa] Mayo he is not playing.
“It’s a strange mentality in the North of Africa and it is not only your quality that is important it is also your mentality you have to adapt to that mentality and that is not easy.
“So, let’s hope the boys that are there start playing in the next month. I’m happy that Appollis is still here.”
Apart from Mayo who joined CR Belouizdad, former Sekhukhune United attacker Elias Mokwana was snapped up by Esperance of Tunisia.
Another South African in North Africa is former Mamelodi Sundowns winger Cassius Mailula who is playing for Rulani Mokwena's Wydad Athletic Club after sealing a loan deal from his MLS side Toronto FC.