SA’s Southampton starlet Chauke explains why he chose Exter City

South African midfielder Kgaogelo Chauke has explained why he chose to go to Exeter City.

The 19-year-old recently joined the English League One side on a season-long loan from Southampton and he has explained why he opted to join the Grecians for the 2022/23 campaign.

“I’m buzzing, obviously I’d been here for two weeks before and getting to know a lot about the club and the players,” he told the club’s official website.

“Its time to be a proper player and have an opportunity to play games. It’s really really exciting and I’m looking forward to it.”

City are known for their winning culture and having a strong following from the locals – this is another element which enticed the midfielder to make the switch.

“I’ve learnt how the clubs is run, obviously there is quite a big fan base and then I also learnt that the stuff and the entire team have a good working relationship.

“Obviously that’s something different to experience which is perfect for me.”

Having been recently promoted to League One, City believe in young players who have come through their ranks which attracts a lot of players who are looking to get a lot of first team football.

“This is a perfect place because of the development that goes on here, you see players from the academy getting chances to play games and train – this is the best place going forward for me.”

Chauke was born in South Africa and moved to England with his parents at a young age. He went through the youth system at Thatcham Town before joining Premier League campaigners Southampton.

He believes that his journey has made him a stronger player which will help him to always overcome any challenge he may face in future.

“My story is probably a bit different from other stories, I was born in South Africa and moved to England quite young. I joined Thatcham Town where I played for a couple of years before I joined Southampton.

“I joined the academy system quite late when I was about 15/16, which obviously I wouldn’t change for anything, but I’ve been in the system for a few years getting a grip of what it means to be a professional footballer – its time to put what I’ve learnt into practice.

“It hasn’t been a smooth road from moving to different places as a child, but I think its time to get out of my comfort zone and progress.”

The anchor is known as a hard working player who brings a lot of commitment to the team. Coach Ralph Hasenhuttl gave him his senior debut in a FA Cup win against Shrewsbury Town last season.

After being announced as captain, he made 20 Premier League 2 appearances last season for Southampton’s reserve team.

RELATED STORY: EXCLUSIVE: Southampton teen gets SA passport

Please follow and like us: