Mokoena not worried by criticism

Aaron Mokoena (right) has been criticised for his tough tackling

South Africa's Aaron Mokoena says that criticism of his playing style does not worry him.

Mokoena and his team-mates at English Premiership side Blackburn have come under fire from the media for their tough approach to games.

But the Bafana Bafana captain, whose nickname is 'Axe', says that their only aim is to compete with the top teams.

"I don't care too much about the criticism, we play as hard as possible as a team but we can still play well," he told BBC Sport.

"We are there to compete and to be at the top and you can't relax and expect those things to just come to you.

"People will always criticise and so we have to deal with it as a team and react in a positive way."

Mokoena also refuses to let a tackle that injured Chelsea's Arjen Robben in February affect the way he plays.

"I think that the manager, Mark Hughes, understands what kind of player I am Aaron Mokoena

"I was committed to the tackle and couldn't pull out. He was very unfortunate," he said.

"I was so sorry for him as he's a great player but I don't go out to end people's careers.

"It's part of the game and especially mine."

The 24-year-old says it has been hard for him to settle in his new role as a defensive midfielder.

"It was hard to change from centre back but I have worked at it - especially mentally," he explained.

"But I'm enjoying the new role and I feel fantastic.

"I think that the manager, Mark Hughes, understands what kind of player I am. He uses me based on my abilities and strengths."

Mokoena adds that he is delighted with his move from Belgian club Genk in January.

"I've had to work really hard and I knew it wasn't going to be easy," he said.

"I was fortunate to make it into the team and the other players have helped a lot making me feel settled as soon as possible."