Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane believes Andile Jali is starting to reap the rewards of his hard work, saying the midfielder now understands what it takes to make the team at Downs.

The former Orlando Pirates man moved to Chloorkop admist a lot of fanfare in 2018, but struggled to break into the team during his debut campaign with the Brazilians.

The midfielder, though, has cut a different figure this season, beginning to feature more regularly for Mosimane’s men.

The midfielder put in a solid display over the weekend as his team thrashed AmaZulu 5-0 in the first round of the Telkom Knockout in his fourth appearance in a row for Downs.

Speaking after the encounter Mosimane was quick to deflect any talk of a recall to the national team for Jali, saying that the midfielder is still establishing himself in the Sundowns side.

‘We should not talk to Andile about Bafana, please guys. Let him play and finish a match here. He is a good player and he is working hard – his condition is good, I mean look at his body. He has sacrificed and done well. Took him time to understand the situation at Sundowns, he understands now,’ Mosimane told the media.

‘He is looking good, we don’t have any issues. He shows that he is looking after himself. He knows Rivaldo [Coetzee] can play in that position, [Tiyani] Mabunda as well and [Sammy] Seabi, no problems. He understands he must be fit and get on the pitch and as long as he is doing that he will play. He shows he is a professional and not a young boy anymore. And we have supported him all the way and it’s about time now he gives back – for himself first and then the club. Slowly he is getting there.

‘I sat down with him to discuss the Leopards game and then the Chiefs game and he is improving like any other player. Let him play for Sundowns first, please,’ concluded the former Bafana Bafana coach.