Burnley manager Vincent Kompany says Lyle Foster is too early to join the South African squad for the Africa Cup of Nations due to mental health issues. Forster, who currently plays for Burnley in the Premier League, has not featured for the club since October, but has been included in the reserve squad by Bafana Bafana manager Hugo Bruce.
Kompany expressed concern about Foster's physical and mental health, saying it was not in his best interest to go against the advice of the experts who assisted him. He acknowledged Foster's desire to represent the national team and show patriotism, but stressed the importance of prioritizing his psyche.
As an African-born coach, Kompany emphasised the importance of the Africa Cup of Nations, but stressed the need to focus on Forster's condition and ensure he is ready to compete on the big stage in the future. He mentioned that Foster is making progress and accepting ** and that the club has been able to support his physical development. Forster joined Burnley from Westeros in Belgium in January, scoring three goals in seven league games prior to his absence. The specifics of Foster's mental health issues have yet to be revealed, but the club is taking the necessary steps to support his physical and mental health**.