Senegal coach Aliou Cisse irked by Keita Balde's discipline

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Friday Nov 24, 2017. 13:30

Media reports in Senegal have revealed the reasons why striker Keita Balde was a notable absentee when they faced South Africa in this month's 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

It is reported that the AS Monaco player's disciplinary issues could cost him a spot in the World Cup squad as coach Aliou Cisse is unhappy with him.

Reports emerging from the Senegal Football Federation reveal that Balde's conduct forced Cisse to axe him from the starting line-up for the double-header against Bafana Bafana early this month.

It is reported that Balde was summoned by the president of the federation to explain his sulking during the game against Cape Verde, but the player took it personal and reportedly insulted Cisse.

“After the match in Dakar, Balde travelled to France and three days later he was line up in a Ligue 1 match in Amiens,” FSF said.

“His overall behaviours also annoyed his teammates as he never interacts with anyone at locker room nor during meal times.”

Furthermore, the French-based attacker went on to fake an injury and wanted to go back to his club.

After that incident, the 22-year-old player refused to train with his Lions of Teranga teammates and faked an injury even during the match against Bafana in Dakar.