Bafana Bafana coach Shakes Mashaba is known to use two out-and-out strikers in his starting eleven as part of his football philosophy. Nonetheless, analysing the squad chosen for the upcoming friendlies against Mali and Nigeria, Shakes may change the system and this is why.

The exclusion of Bongani Ndulula, which was his number one target man, coupled with an array of attacking midfielders chosen could suggest that Mashaba may experiment in fielding one less striker.

Oupa Manyisa, Cole Alexander, Jabulani Shongwe, Thulani Serero, Ayanda Patosi and Sibusiso Vilakazi are all authentic number 10’s and Shakes got it spot on as to who he thinks are the best playmakers available for the national team.

Traditionally, Mashaba made use of two holding midfielders and two strikers. This meant that in the space between these areas, there was no link-up in the ‘hole’ - and creativity had to come from out wide.

Criticism came from all angles when Mashaba showed faith in the striking pair of Ndulula and Tokelo Rantie, as they did well in build-up play but were poor in front of goal.

By changing the system this way, the squad’s goal scoring potential could be unlocked by playing with a number 10 in a free roaming role.

Do you think Shakes should change the system in this manner?