Hughes shock at Benni snub

Blackburn boss surprised striker is left out

By Graeme Bailey   Last updated: 4th December 2007

Benni McCarthy Blackburn

McCarthy: No ACN trip

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Blackburn manager Mark Hughes admits he was shocked to learn of Benni McCarthy's omission from South Africa's squad for the African Cup of Nations.

McCarthy was amongst a number of experienced players left out by Brazilian Carlos Alberto Parriera - who named a 23-man party for the tournament in Ghana next month.

Delron Buckley, Bradley Carnell, MacBeth Sibaya and Siyabonga Nomvete were also ignored by Parriera - whose decision not to call-up McCarthy has surprised his club boss Hughes.

Some reports claimed Hughes had struck an agreement with the South African FA to let McCarthy miss the trouanemnt - but the Rovers boss insists he had no idea his striker would not be going.

Shock

"It was a surprise to Benni initially that he got called back into the squad earlier this year," said Hughes.

"But it was a new manager and, obviously, he wanted to see what options he had. Maybe that's behind it.

"I'd have to speak to Benni because I was unaware of it.

"We haven't put any pressure on Benni or South Africa not to include him, and we were preparing to be without him."

The news will be a huge boost for Hughes who will now have McCarthy available instead of the possible six-week absence.

One player who is definitely missing is Aaron Mokoena - who was named by Parriera.

Two uncapped players have been named in the Bafana Bafana selection, Exellent Walaza and Itumeleng Khune.