The Stellenbosch players Steve Barker believes deserve CHAN call-up

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has named a few of his players whom he believes deserve to be in South Africa’s squad for CHAN.

He, however, believes they have the quality, and soon an opportunity will arise. Stellies brought in more youngsters ahead of the 2022/23 DStv Premiership season, building a new team around them.

A few have impressed so far after breaking through to the first team.

“Looking at the players that we have at the club and the talent we have, I think a tournament like CHAN will be ideal for them to get that exposure.

“It’s not to be, unfortunately. We have to keep working in training and in matches,” Barker told the club media.

“Our DDC team having the success they heard shows it was no fluke. There is some real good quality. Antonio Van Wyk getting on the score sheet, a guy like Andreas getting a start, man of the match performance and getting on the score sheet.”

The 46-year-old is confident his troops will get chances soon after impressive in the new season.

“I’m sure they will get their opportunities soon rather than later. If you are able to create that, a lot of younger players coming through, getting opportunities and strengthening the squad in areas we believe we can strengthen it will be amazing.”

“I’m very proud and happy with what I’m seeing. The response at training the camaraderie, unity and togetherness of the team.”

The Cape Town outfit is yet to taste defeat this season after a victory and three draws.

They visit Mamelodi Sundowns for their next fixture in Pretoria. The last time the two teams met in the capital, the Winelands club humiliated the reigning DStv Premiership champions 3-0.

Sundowns will be out to prove that the last defeat was just a fluke.