Deon Hotto says Orlando Pirates must "soldier on" after Siwelele setback
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Andre de Jong included in New Zealand squad for international friendlies with Finland and Chile
The 29-year-old former AmaZulu hitman made his senior international debut in 2018, and has 11 caps and two goals.
New Zealand face Finland at Eden Park on Friday, March 27 and Chile at the same venue on Monday, March 30 as part of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup finals.
A number of All Whites regulars are missing through injury including Michael Boxall, Liberato Cacace, Matt Garbett, Nando Pijnaker, Sarpreet Singh, and captain Chris Wood.
De Jong has been displaying some good form for the Buccaneers following his switch from Stellenbosch this season but will be pushing for more game-time to make the All Whites' final World Cup squad.
Head coach Darren Bazeley revealed the importance of the two ties as they gear up to face Belgium, Egypt and Iran in Group G.
"These are two really important games for us as we continue building towards the FIFA World Cup, so it is great to name our squad to play in front of our home fans for the last time before the tournament.
“We know the deadline for naming our FIFA World Cup squad is getting closer and closer, so we are pleased to be able to give opportunities to a number of players to state their case, especially with a few regulars unavailable for this window.
“Finland and Chile should be great tests for us, and we look forward to taking them on in front of all of our home fans at Eden Park," he said on NZ Football.
Full New Zealand squad:
Goalkeepers: Max Crocombe, Alex Paulsen, Michael Woud
Defenders: Callan Elliot, Tim Payne; Tyler Bindon, Finn Surman, Bill Tuiloma; Francis de Vries, James McGarry
Midfielders: Lachlan Bayliss, Joe Bell, Eli Just, Ben Old, Alex Rufer, Marko Stamenić, Ryan Thomas
Forwards: Kosta Barbarouses, Andre de Jong, Callum McCowatt, Jesse Randall, Logan Rogerson, Ben Waine
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