SEDIBENG.- Former Bafana Bafana star, Augustine Makalakalane, from the Vaal has backed Pitso Mosimane in his stand-off with SAFA over bringing his own technical staff.

Reports indicate that Mosimane and the association are at loggerheads because SAFA wants him to retain members of Hugo Broos’ former technical team, including assistant coach Helmen Mkhalele.

However, Makalakalane insists that a coach has every right to choose his own colleagues.

Mosimane is well known for taking his own technical team whenever he goes.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Bafana Bafana’s Class of ‘96 legend explained that it is standard practice in football for managers to surround themselves with trusted staff who understand their philosophy and DNA.

He pointed to Mosimane’s successful move from Mamelodi Sundowns to Al Ahly, where he brought his entire team with him, as proof that the formula works.

This has a lot to do with politics, among other things.

“Look, we all know that some of those members of technical staff hired by SAFA and Pitso won’t be comfortable working with them.  This has a lot to do with politics, among other things. Pitso wants to work with the people who understand him, especially how he operates,” said Makalakalane.

While Makalakalane holds no personal grudge against Mkhalele, he believes past technical staff failed to do enough to scout young talent from smaller clubs and the National First Division.

“I still feel that not enough effort was made to select good players, especially young players from these small teams, including those players who were playing in the National First Division league. As someone who knows and understands South African football, he could have recommended some of the players who play even in the DDC to the coach.

South Africa is blessed when it comes to talent, and no youngster was selected.  I mean, in the past we used to have a 17-year-old player in the national team. Relebohile Mofokeng was the youngest player at the age of 21,” Makalakalane added.

Mosimane is experienced enough to know what brings success.

Ultimately, Makalakalane believes Mosimane is experienced enough to know what brings success and hopes he is allowed to build his own team to deliver results for Bafana Bafana.