Steve Barker still confident of holding on to key players

Captain Deano van Rooyen is wanted by Orlando Pirates, while left-back Fawaaz Basadien is on the Kaizer Chiefs wishlist. 

Speaking ahead of their MTN8 quarter-final clash against TS Galaxy on Sunday, Barker said he was still confident Stellies will not budge.

"I think I've been in the game for long enough, and it is that time of the season when there's always talks of clubs being interested in your players, but I think our players are happy where they are," said Barker.

"We have shown that we can compete to win medals and trophies, we've shown competitiveness in the league, and we're now playing in the continental inter-club competition.

"So the players are excited to be part of that journey and to help the club continue to grow, and continue to be successful."

Barker added that Stellies were eyeing consistency after finishing third in the league, and securing a CAF Confederation Cup spot this season.

"I've always maintained that, for a club to have sustainable success, you need consistency. Two seasons back we finished fourth in the league, and now we're finished third in the league, so we're starting to show we're establishing ourselves," he added.

"We also have the players that can keep us at that level, and obviously a lot of them have now made national teams, whether it's Bafana or COSAFA Cup.

"So, from a player point of view, we've got a quality team of quality players that can continue to allow us to believe that we can be competitive in all cup competitions – starting with the MTN8 on the weekend, as well as the league."

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