Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Gaston Sirino has opened up about his time in the country and discussed the opportunity to play for Bafana Bafana.
Sirino has already spent five years in the country since he was signed from Bolivian side Bolivar in 2018 while former coach Pitso Mosimane was in charge at Masandawana.
READ: Why Talks Have Stalled Between Chiefs And Nabi
This means the Uruguayan qualifies to represent Bafana Bafana after he was issued with a South African passport.
Celebrating his five-year landmark in the country, Sirino reflected on his first impressions after arriving in the country in 2018.
The Uruguayan says he was "surprised" to see supporters of rival teams sitting together in the stands.
"At first, I was surprised to see supporters from opposing teams sitting together in the stands," Sirino said in the latest issue of Sundowns Magazine.
"That doesn't happen in Uruguay because our passion for the game is different. I guess diversity in South Africa makes it easier to have harmony among the fans."
The 32-year-old continued and revealed that he holds the Haka Matorokisi dance, done by Sundowns with their fans, close to his heart.
"I still recall how shocked I was when I saw the guys singing before the game with Collen (Baloyi) leading the gents in a song. Where I come from, these things don't happen, but I slowly got used to the songs and now can sing along with the fans," he went on.
"I must admit that the Haka Matorokisi dance we do at the stadium with the Yellow Nation is very sentimental as they sing their lungs out at every game."
There has been a debate on whether national team coach Hugo Broos should select Sirino for Bafana.
The Uruguayan has taken South Africa into his confidence and says he would gladly accept the opportunity should he be called up.
READ: Sibisi: Pirates Have Been My First Love
"I have had a great time in this beautiful country, I love everything about it and if I get presented with the chance to don the national team colours, I would jump at the opportunity," the midfielder said.
"But the decision does not rest with me. There is no player born in South America who has played for Bafana Bafana and if I receive the call, I would be happy to represent this beautiful nation," he added.
