Hopes of representing South Africa at the upcoming World Cup have been dashed for AmaZulu goalkeeper Darren Johnson, who is set to be sidelined from football for the next six months. This news was confirmed by his coach, Arthur Zwane.
Johnson had been under the radar of national team coach Hugo Broos, who previously included him in preliminary squads for the Bafana Bafana. This offered the goalkeeper a glimmer of hope as he aimed to secure a place in the World Cup squad.
Despite his injury setback, Zwane noted that Johnson’s absence is a significant blow to the team’s aspirations in the Betway Premiership. “We’re probably the only team that has used all its goalkeepers this season,” he stated, emphasizing the challenges ahead without a reliable backup.
Zwane expressed concern over the team’s options if anything were to happen to their current goalkeeper, Olwethu. He remarked, “We would have to rely on the DDC goalkeepers. The question is, are they ready for top-flight football?” He acknowledged the unforeseen nature of the situation but emphasized the need to adapt and seek solutions moving forward.