Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has stood by his decision to select Mamelodi Sundowns star Cassius Mailula for the national team.

The 25-year-old rejoined the Brazilians for a second stint this season after stints abroad with Toronto FC, KV Kortrijk, and Wydad Casablanca.

Mailula has been impressive since making his return to Sundowns and has become a key member of the squad, having scored four goals in 11 appearances across all competitions.

He has since earned a call-up back into the Bafana squad after a three and a half years ago absence from the national team as a result of his impressive performance for Sundowns.

Mosimane also backed Mailula’s inclusion in the national team, highlighting the Mamelodi Sundowns forward’s impressive form, goalscoring and contribution at club level.

“I have always used young players. I used Daine Klate when he was 17. Cassius [Mailula] was with me in pre-season when he was 16, right? And probably some of you don’t know this,” Mosimane told the media.

“I have seen what I have seen, you know? So, it’s not for me to justify that Cassius must be here. He’s doing it week in and week out, right?

“I’m happy, you know; I’m not surprised why he’s here because the boy is playing well, scoring, and helping Mamelodi Sundowns at the highest level.”