Thulani Hlatshwayo tells Ime Okon to forget about Nigeria

The 20-year-old is eligible to represent both the Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana because of his Nigerian father and South African mother.

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 Hlatshwayo, a former Bafana captain, revealed his conversation with the young centre back, who has already caught coach Hugo Broos’ attention.

''I already told him to stay in South Africa. It will be difficult for him to crack in the Nigerian team, he will have to play in Europe to be selected for the Nigerian team. I think we need him in the team,'' said Hlatshwayo.

With the majority of the Bafana defenders approaching 30 and some already over, Hlatshwayo feels Okon is the next generation.

''When you look at our centre backs, Mvala with the injuries, Grant , Siyanda, and read a little bit about Ngezana that they kept the documents, not sure what is happening.

''I think his father is from Nigeria, and the mother is from here, he grew up here - I remember Gavin saying he took him from the Randburg football team,'' added Hlatshwayo.

For Hlatshwayo, the fact that Okon was raised in South Africa and “even speaks Afrikaans” is further proof that he should wear a Bafana jersey.

  ''To me he is South African, because he also speaks Afrikaans. I told him we need him, and the more he plays, the more experience he will get. He will do well,'' said Hlathwayo.

The defender nicknamed ‘Tyson’ also shares his experience playing alongside Okon following the youngster’s breakthrough season under coach Gavin Hunt.

''He's quick, and obviously there was a year or two of development, and we complement one another,'' he concluded.