Bongani Zungu refuses to shut the door on Bafana return

The 32-year-old, who has earned more than 30 caps for the national team, believes he can still force his way into coach Hugo Broos’ plans despite being overlooked during stints in Europe with Amiens and Rangers.

Zungu remains reluctant to draw the curtain on his international ambitions, especially with SA preparing for the AFCON in December and edging closer to FIFA World Cup qualification.

"I play football with the hope of representing my country. I'm at a club where I'm happy and enjoying my football, and as long as I work hard and stay fit, I can achieve anything."

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Broos has largely resisted recalling older players, but his decision to persist with Themba Zwane gives Zungu encouragement.

Zungu is enjoying his role as a senior figure at AmaZulu and says guiding the next generation has come naturally to him.

"I've been a youngster before, and I could always see how the senior players would offer guidance to the younger generation, so I've learned from them.

"I have won a few trophies in my career, so that winning mentality is something I try to relay to the youngsters."

Usuthu meet Magesi in the Carling Knockout next weekend, a cup Zungu insists they are determined to chase after the MTN8 setback.