The 28-year-old goalkeeper’s stellar Betway Premiership form for Babina Noko has earned him a spot in Hugo Broos’ squad to face Panama in two friendlies.
South Africa play the central American nation at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday and at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Tuesday.
Leaner was selected alongside captain Ronwen Williams from Mamelodi Sundowns and Siwelele’s Ricardo Goss and ahead of Sipho Chaine from Orlando Pirates.
Reflecting on his inclusion, Learner explained that he wasn’t surprised by the call-up.
“I don’t feel like I was surprised,” he said on IOL. “In the prelim squad, there are always five goalkeepers, (so) if your name is there from the five, you always have to be ready.
READ: Hugo Broos dismisses retirement talk ahead of Panama test
“If you feel like there are always three and that you won’t make the final and you do get a chance, then you won’t be ready. So, I was always ready.”
Leaner has conceding just six goals, alongside eight clean sheets, in 13 league appearances this season.
“I was grateful for coming here because I’ve been working for this, and it’s always been my goal to play for the national team. So, I was grateful to get the call-up and get the recognition,” the goalkeeper added.