Sage Stephens eager to make most of Bafana Bafana experience

The 33-year-old has been included in the squad to face Uganda and South Sudan for the AFCON qualifiers.

Speaking at Dobsonville Stadium where he made his debut for Moroka Swallows more than a decade ago, Stephens was emotional.

"It's been a week for me, an emotional week spending it with loved ones and family. Funny enough that path has led me to this stadium where it all started. If I were to script it myself, I don't think I would have scripted it any better to make my first call up at the stadium where I played my first football game for the team that I played my first game for,” Sage said.

“So, very blessed and very honoured to have this privilege."

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The Stellenbosch FC captain described the recognition from Bafana coach Hugo Broos as a milestone in his career.

"The first person I spoke to was my wife, reaction? Actually, I couldn't believe it. Funny enough as I said before in my interviews before this, I can only control my performances and ultimately the decision lies with the coach and as we all expect, the coach has done a magnificent job and when I saw my name there for the first time officially, I was very emotional,” he added.

“I don't wanna say it out loud but I had to choke back a few tears because it's a very special moment for me, it's a big achievement for me, personally and I'm just so grateful for it."

Stephens hopes the latest developments also inspire young players in the PSL and around the world.

"To have your first call-up at the age of 33 for me it's an incredible feat. The only thing I would like to say is that it's never over until you decide it's over. Ultimately, everyone's got their own journey to follow and their own path to lead and the only thing I can say is never to give up.

“If it happened for me at the age of 33, anything is possible for any youngster at any club in the league or let's say around the world."