Gift Links has spoken publicly for the first time after being left out of the latest Bafana Bafana squad, despite enjoying a productive spell with Danish side Aarhus Gymnastikforening.
The 27-year-old winger, who has been based in Europe since joining AGF from Cape Town City in 2019, has established himself as a consistent performer in the Danish SuperLiga. However, his club form has yet to translate into renewed involvement with the national team.
Links has been a key figure for AGF over the past six years, making 200 appearances while contributing 18 goals and 23 assists. His performances this season have been particularly notable, with five goals and six assists in 29 matches, alongside multiple inclusions in the Danish SuperLiga Team of the Week.
His contributions have also coincided with a strong campaign for AGF, who are in contention to win the league title for the first time since 1986. Despite this, Links was not selected in the South African squad for upcoming international friendlies against Panama, matches that form part of preparations ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to Campo, Links addressed the omission but struck a measured and composed tone, emphasising his focus on club performances rather than questioning selection decisions.
“All I can do is play as much as possible here and help my team,” Links told Campo.
“That’s the most important thing. I’m not going to go ahead and ask, “Why am I not being drafted?” That’s not up to me.
“The most important thing is that I continue to work hard and whatever happens, happens. That’s my mentality.”
His response reflects a player determined to maintain consistency at club level while leaving international selection in the hands of the national team’s coaching staff.
Links’ situation has drawn attention given his sustained performances in Europe, particularly during a season in which AGF have emerged as strong title contenders. His absence from the national setup raises questions about selection priorities, especially as South Africa prepares for future international competitions.
While some players based abroad have found regular opportunities with Bafana Bafana, Links has yet to secure a consistent place in recent squads. Nevertheless, his continued form in Denmark could keep him in contention for future call-ups.
For now, the winger appears focused on contributing to AGF’s title push, with the club aiming to complete a historic season. Whether his performances will eventually earn recognition at international level remains to be seen, but Links has made clear that his approach will remain unchanged.
