FANTASTIC FOSTER

LYLE FOSTER HAS MADE A DREAM START TO LIFE IN THE ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE, BUT THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING.

- Mazola Molefe

With striker Lyle Foster notably absent from the Bafana Bafana squad named by coach Hugo Broos for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Morocco in June, the assumption was that there would be a club-versus-country war brewing now that the player is in the English Premier League.

Foster turned up for Burnley in their first pre-season camp following promotion from the Championship last season, and Broos later explained this was an arrangement with Clarets manager Vincent Kompany, The clash against Morocco was a dead rubber anyway, with both teams already through to the continental tournament in Ivory Coast next year - a tournament every South African hopes Foster will arrive at still enjoying a purple patch.

"What is happening now is what coach Vincent wanted from me and the discussions we had during pre-season, when he asked coach Hugo Broos if I could remain behind," Foster offered further context the next time he reported for national duty, giving credit to his club coach as well.

"He's had a huge influence, obviously. It's evident to everyone that he's given me a lot of chances - I have been playing most of the games, and pretty much up to 90 minutes. I am so grateful to work with someone as accomplished as he is, not only on the football field but off it as well. I am savouring every moment."