Mthethwa can give Bafana options – Barker

Mthethwa can give Bafana options - Barker

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has reacted to midfielder Sibongiseni Mthethwa making his Bafana Bafana debut last month and reckons the 28-year-old has all the attributes to be a national team regular.

Although Bafana coach Hugo Broos was livid with some of the performances by the new faces he gave an opportunity to, and clearly stated that a lot of them would not be returning to the fold, Barker felt Mthethwa will be œan asset.

Having played every minute of the nine DStv Premiership matches for Stellies so far this season, his coach had in fact called for his call-up weeks before.

œNo, look obviously it™s never easy when it™s your first call-up - he™s had a big step from NFD [second tier] to the PSL and now Bafana, noted Barker.

œI thought he acquitted himself well and I think he is the type of player that, when playing in Africa, he is robust, he is very strong and doesn™t ever give up. I think he can be a really good asset for Bafana, maybe not starting every game.

The midfield isn™t really lacking alternatives for Broos, with the Belgian tactician continuously criticised for ignoring the likes of Andile Jali, Bongani Zungu and Lebo Phiri.

Barker insists there™s room for a player like Mthethwa.

œBut if you need somebody to come shore up the midfield, I think he will be more than capable. I am very proud of what he has done, he™s got a lot of growth and learning to do, so we™ve got to keep doing that and providing him that opportunity, and hopefully the coach can continue to give him those chances, the coach concluded.

By Mazola Molefe