Lyle Foster: Benni McCarthy Supports Bafana Star's Call Up, Urges Sympathy for Mental Health Issues

• Benni McCarthy, has defended Lyle Foster against criticism for missing the 2023 AFCON due to mental health issues
• McCarthy highlighted the importance of compassion and understanding for athletes dealing with mental health challenges
• Foster has been recalled to the Bafana Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe

Manchester United first-team coach, Benni McCarthy, has publicly defended Lyle Foster in response to the backlash from fans following his recall to the Bafana Bafana squad.

Foster, 23, was selected by coach Hugo Broos for the first time since October after missing the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) due to mental health challenges.

McCarthy stressed the importance of compassion and understanding for athletes dealing with mental health issues.

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Speaking to Robert Marawa on Radio 947, the former Porto striker expressed his dismay at some fans' negative reactions.

He pointed out the growing issue of mental health, describing it as one of the fastest-growing challenges today. McCarthy emphasized the need for openness and support rather than silence.

“It’s one that’s really difficult to understand why people would celebrate the team has gone down because a player didn’t decide to play for the national team, to represent the country at the international level. Mental health is slowly becoming the fastest killer out there. Many suffer in silence, not wanting to share their feelings or struggles. That’s a big mistake," McCarthy said, as reported by iDiski Times.

The ex-Ajax man praised the Burnley striker for his courage in speaking out about his struggles, highlighting the challenges of adapting to new environments, cultures, and languages.

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Reflecting on his efforts to support Foster, McCarthy shared that he tried to reach out and offer help, dismissing the notion that the forward didn't want to play for his country.

Bafana coach Hugo Broos is determined to improve their AFCON semi-final performance in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Per AfrikFoot, the match against Nigeria will be held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on June 7. Despite the difficulty of their qualifying group, which includes Zimbabwe and Lesotho, Broos remains optimistic about the team's potential. The second qualifier against Zimbabwe will be played at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on June 11.

Foster signs new Burnley deal

Sports Brief reported that Foster had signed a long-term deal with Burnley.

The striker has signed a new five-year deal, which will see him remain at Turf Moor until 2028.

He joined the side in January and has adapted well to life in the English Premier League.