FC Rostov’s South African defender, Siyanda Xulu, may miss Bafana Bafana’s friendlies with Australia and New Zealand after picking up an ankle injury.

The centre back, who has been putting in a number of fine performances for Rostov in Russia off late, picked up the knock in training, and while there is not long-term damage, he does face a few weeks out.

Siya sources are led to believe that there is some heavy bruising on the ankle, with the current swelling making it difficult to discern the exact length of his lay-off.

It is hoped that the defender will only face around 2-3 weeks on the sidelines, meaning that he will be available for Bafana duty next month, however if his recovery takes longer, then he may even miss the rest of Rostov’s season and have to withdraw from Gordon Igesund’s side.

Rostov’s last game of the current season will take place on May 15, nine days before Igesund’s men take on the Socceroos.