Whether one likes to admit it or not, Benni McCarthy is still the best striker in South Africa, writes iafrica.com's Khaya Ndubane

There was a mixed reaction when Bafana Bafana coach Carlos Alberto Parreira recalled Bennie McCarthy into the Bafana Bafana squad, but I am not sure what all the fuss is about because even a person who is clueless about football can see that South Africa needs Benni McCarthy right now.

Anyone who has a different view must simply be too naive to face the facts, because the reality is that there is no one that can match Benni's goal-scoring prowess in South Africa at the moment.

The likes of Richard Henyekane, Sthembiso Ngcobo, Mabhuti Khenyeza — who the country was crying for their inclusion in the Bafana squad — were given their chance, but they could not break the Bafana goal drought.

Granted, McCarthy is not playing in England and there are questions around his fitness, but there is no question about his goal-scoring ability, especially in the Bafana colours.

It does not matter now whether Benni is playing in England, what is important is to bring confidence back to the Bafana Bafana team prior to the 2010 World Cup. Even if he struggles to regain his scoring form, his presence in the Bafana team will be a motivation to youngsters like Kermit Erasmus.

There is no substitution for experience and McCarthy has not only got experience, but has a proven goal-scoring record under his name.

Even the best players in the world like Didier Drogba say South Africa needs McCarthy so who are we to question his inclusion in the Bafana squad?

Let's put aside the hate and start supporting our best players. Benni is one of our best players and, whether we like it or not, we need him!

  • Do you agree with Khaya? Do Bafana Bafana need Benni or are there better strikers than Benni in SA? Let us know what YOU think!

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