Brave Warriors head coach Collin Benjamin yesterday said the injury which Sundowns’ hitman Peter Shalulile is currently nursing will not impact the Brave Warriors negatively, as the country’s senior national football team will not play any games for the rest of the year.

He was reacting to news of the 29-year-old being ruled out of action for the remainder of the year after he sustained a muscular injury. 

The Pretoria-based team head coach Rulani Mokwena confirmed the striker being ruled out of play, saying he has undergone surgery.

“But it’s something that is not too much of a concern. Hopefully, we can get him back as soon as possible, but for sure he will not be available until after the World Cup is over,” said Mokwena.

Benjamin, who was appointed this year as the Brave Warriors gaffer, said it’s an unfortunate situation for Shalulile.

He, however, said he hopes the player recovers on time because if he is active and scoring for his club, it would be the same for the national team, “so, it’s equally important that he remains fit for the club because that enormously benefits the national team as well”. 

The Brave Warriors will only return to action next year when they contest in the African Cup of Nations qualifiers. 

Shalulile has scored six goals this season in the DSTV premiership. He last played for his club on 1 October.

The Namibian was named Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season after smashing 27 goals in all competitions last season.

- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na