Innocent Mdledle is confident that Mamelodi Sundowns can scupper his old team Orlando Pirates despite his absence on Wednesday night.

The left-back, who moved to Chloorkop at the start of the season, is suspended for the clash at the Super Stadium.

"The fact that I won't play doesn't mean we will have a problem defensively," he told Football365.co.za.

"It is a very important game that we must win at all costs and I believe we can win it."

The 24-year-old, who was in the Confederations Cup provisional squad, but failed to make the final cut is determined to gain a Bafana Bafana recall.

"The fact that I won't be playing against my former team tomorrow doesn't discourage me," he added.

"I'm focusing on the future and I want to get back into the Bafana team. I was there before and I know what to do to get back there again. It is all about hard work and I have been working very hard to make sure I do well for Sundowns and also put myself in the picture as far as the national team is concerned.

"I'm confident I can get a recall."