Rovers concerned over Furman’s full employment

Furman and Rovers’ loan defender Bongani Khumalo both played their part in Bafana Bafana’s shock 1-0 victory in Johannesburg’s Soccer City, achieved thanks to a goal from Bernard Parker.

It was just the second time that world-ranked No 1 side Spain have tasted defeat in the last two years.

While Dickov relayed his congratulations to the duo by telephone after the match, he was less enamoured with Igesund.

Mindful of the travelling involved for both players and the fact they would be required for domestic duty in tonight’s Championship encounter with Yeovil, Dickov stressed to Igesund ahead of the game the need to consider Rovers’ situation and not to play them for the full 90 minutes.

In the event, Khumalo was forced off at half-time against Spain with a slight groin niggle, being substituted as a precaution, and is expected to be fit for this evening’s clash.

But Furman played the entire game, something Dickov was not happy about at all.

He said: “I have spoken to Dean and congratulated both him and Bongs (Khumalo) straight after the game.

“It was a fantastic result and achievement on a personal basis to beat the world champions with one of their strongest teams out.

“But I am disappointed Dean played 96 minutes as I had a conversation with the manager on Monday and outlined the injury problems we had and the importance of travelling and playing a full game with us playing on Friday nght.

“He gave his word he’d look after him.

“Playing 96 minutes after travelling all the way and then travelling straightaway back is something I don’t regard as looking after him.”

On the stunning victory, Furman added:

“We’ve got a terrific group of players.

“The squad is gelling all the time.

“We’re coming together and we’re getting stronger, and I think we showed what we can do against the best team in the world.”