Surman not keen on South Africa

Norwich City midfielder Andrew Surman is not likely to begin playing for South Africa in the near future.

South Africa coach Gordon Igesund was left unimpressed by the 26-year-old’s desire to represent the country.

Surman, who has been capped four times for England at under-21 level, failed to convince Igesund that he was ready to star in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, which South Africa will host.

Surman was born in Johannesburg and can still play for his country of birth despite representing England’s youth sides, but Igesund has decided not to pursue him any further after their first meeting.

“I believe he didn’t show us the interest and passion we had expected from those wanting to play for Bafana Bafana,” the coach told Sky Sports.

“I got the feeling that he is not ready to commit to us so will not be pursuing that mission anymore.”

Surman, who began his professional career with Southampton, has made four appearances so far this season for Norwich, who sit in 15th place in the English Premier League.