Bafana Bafana midfielder Teko Modise is keen to set the record straight when the team clashes with Japan on Saturday.
The Orlando Pirates star has come in for criticism of late due to his dip in form.
However, Modise is raring to go and is eager to regain his excellent form of last season in the near future.
The 26-year-old told SAPA: "I cannot stop people talking or writing that I am tired, but believe me, I am just as hungry as any player in the squad to beat Japan and reverse the string of defeats.
"If I get the opportunity to play, I promise I will make us of it. I will be at my best and work as hard as I can.
"We owe it to everyone to get back on track and Japan is the ideal test for us."
The arrival of Carlos Alberto Parreira as head coach has been met with a mixed reception by the general public.
Modise, however, believes the former Brazil national team coach's return is a good thing and will benefit the side.
The former SuperSport United player said: "The new coach has been great so far.
"He told us we must not dwell on the past few months. He said what is done is done and that we start afresh when we face Japan and we are determined to bounce back."
Another figure who has returned to the Bafana Bafana setup is striker Benni McCarthy.
The Blackburn Rovers forward was frozen out by previous coach Joel Santana and his return has been greeted with optimism.
Modise is sure that McCarthy is going to help change the side's fortunes and will prove integral in the development of the younger players in the squad.
He continued: "Benni is going to make the world of difference. He is our top goal scorer and will play a pivotal role.
"You can see the influence he already has on the younger players who look up to him. I am impressed by the new players in the squad."
After two disastrous tours away from home, Bafana Bafana will be delighted to be back on home soil and able to play in front of their own fans.
Modise insists that the support of the local fans is much appreciated by the players and they will be needed when they tackle Japan in Port Elizabeth this weekend.
Modise added: "Playing at home in front of our fans will make a huge difference to us as players.
"It is always tough playing away, but we will have our 12th man in the stands on Saturday and the players appreciate that type of support we are expecting."
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