Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa is back in the Bafana Bafana mix and ready to repay the trust shown in him by coach Hugo Broos.

Makgopa, who was injured shortly after playing an influential role in South Africa’s third-place AFCON finish at the start of the year, returned to action with his club at the start of the season and has already scored six goals from 13 appearances to secure his call up.

Speaking to the media ahead of Friday’s top-of-the-table clash against Uganda Makgopa said he was determined to repay Broos for the faith he had placed in him. “You don’t want to disappoint such a person who has faith in you, so the only thing you have to do for him is just to push and work for him when given a chance.

“I knew coming back from injury was going to be tough. When you have an injury, it’s tough and can affect you mentally, so you must be strong.

“I am glad that when I came back I had a place on the bench because at my club it is also tough to even make the bench… truly speaking.

“I can say that I am fortunate enough to have returned.

“I knew I’d make my way back into Bafana Bafana team once I started playing at Pirates… it’s good to be back in the team,” he said.

Uganda versus South Africa kicks off on Friday at 3pm.