Kaizer Chiefs coach Giovanni Solinas believes Stuart Baxter’s Bafana Bafana squad needs a defender with Siyabonga Ngezana’s ability.

The South African national team are set to take on Seychelles in back-to-back African Cup of Nations qualifiers this month.

Baxter has included the likes of Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Motjeka Madisha, Siyanda Xulu, Innocent Maela, Thulani Hlatshwayo, S’fiso Hlanti and Buhle Mkhwanazi in defence.

However, Solinas believes that the 21-year-old defender has all the traits and qualities to become a regular in the Bafana Bafana squad.

‘I respect my players, I love my players. And it’s the same about Siya [Ngezana]. Yes, for me, he can play in the national team,’ Solinas told the media.

‘I don’t see too many strong defenders like Siya in the PSL, but this is my opinion. In Bafana, there is a very good coach in Stuart Baxter and he decides.

‘But, in my opinion, he can play. He’s a young player, he needs to improve, but his ability for a defender is unbelievable, in my opinion.

‘He’s strong, fast, a good header of the ball, he has good aggression. So, this guy, in my opinion, has everything for a good career, and to play for Bafana Bafana. I repeat, this is my opinion.’

The Gauteng-born defender has been in fine form for Amakhosi this campaign – having already scored two goals from 10 appearances in all competitions thus far.

Kaizer Chiefs will be hoping to get back to winning ways when they welcome Polokwane City to the Moses Mabhida Stadium in the Absa Premiership on Saturday with kick off set for 6pm.

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