Johannesburg – New Bafana Bafana striker call-up Fagrie Lakay says while he is in the national to learn, he will also raise his hand should he be asked to help the team.
Lakay was one of the youngest player in the Bafana Bafana squad to take on Congo in two matches in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
In the first match, South Africa travel to Congo to face the host nation on Saturday, while the return leg would be played at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane next Wednesday.
Lakay was an integral part of the under-20 squad and had been working with coach Shakes Mashaba since his days in the youth ranks.
“The coach is sometimes hard on you when you play for Bafana
Bafana. At the lower levels he can be a bit softer but here he pushes you and you can't blame him as we have to get results,” said Lakay, who plays for Santos in the National First Division.
The striker became a household name after his two goals helped Amajita qualify for the African Youth Championships to be held in Niger from March next year.
“Obviously it's the senior team, you are playing with the best players in the country,” Lakay said.
“I must admit that so far the guys have been very supportive. Every player wants to give a 100 percent and get goals.
“Should I be given a chance to play, I will do my best to assist the national team too.”
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa had brushed aside talk that Bafana would have defensive difficulties in the absence of the experienced Anele Ngcongca who pulled out of the squad on Tuesday due to an injury.
“Every player that is here is good enough to represent the nation and I believe whoever gets an opportunity to play will do their best,” Meyiwa said.
“We have enough quality to close the gap and with the high team spirit I believe we can get a good result.
“We have to go there with an open mind, defend well and avoid conceding a goal as that will put us at a disadvantage.” – Sapa