South Africa suffer McCarthy no-show
Tuesday, 29 May 2007 12:00
Benni McCarthy has again snubbed South Africa
Benni McCarthy looks like he has again rejected a call-up from his national side South Africa.
The Blackburn forward had been due to begin training at the Bafana training camp, prior to South Africa's African Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad.
Brazilian manager Carlos Alberto Parreira had unexpectedly named McCarthy in the 19-man squad in an unexpected attempt to end his 18-month absence from the team.
Local newspaper reports cite a rift between McCarthy and a senior South Africa FA (Safa) official as being responsible for McCarthy's self-imposed exile, which is now apparently continuing undeterred by Parreira's efforts.
Safa reportedly have no idea of McCarthy's whereabouts and have been forced to wait at the Bafana camp for him to either turn up – or not.
McCarthy's success in the 2006/07 Premiership campaign means he is an attractive prospect up front for Parreira.
The 29-year-old's 18 league strikes made him the season's second highest scorer behind Chelsea's Didier Drogba He has scored 24 goals for his country in 50 appearances.
Despite his potential absence South Africa should have no problems overcoming Chad, who are yet to win a match in their qualifying efforts. South Africa currently top the group 11 table.