Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker believes Amajita star Tylon Smith has a “really bright future ahead of him”.
Smith was recently named Player of the Tournament at the Afcon Under-20 Championships in Egypt, where the central defender played a pivotal role in South Africa annexing their maiden continental U20 title.
Amajita defeated Morocco 1-0 in the final, avenging the 1997 defeat to the North Africans.
Smith and fellow Stellenbosch rookie Langelihle “Major” Phili were greeted with a hero’s welcome by their fellow players at the club’s annual awards banquet upon their return from Egypt this week.
Stellies right winger Faiz Abrahams was also part of the SA Under-20 squad, but was not present at the awards.
“Obviously I’m very proud of what the players have achieved at the Under-20 Afcon,” Barker said.
“All of the players, Faiz, Major (Phili) and Tylon really are doing not only the club proud, but also doing South Africa proud.
“So, really pleased with their contribution, as we are with Monet Crumpton, the goalkeeper coach. Really, really well done to them.”
The focus will, however, be on Smith after the defender’s inspirational displays for Amajita, which also included a crucial goal in the semi-final victory over Nigeria.
The 19-year-old has signed a professional contract with Stellies, but is yet to make his debut in the Premiership.
Stellies boast an impressive backline which includes senior Bafana Bafana internationals Athenkhosi Mcaba, Thabo Moloisane and Fawaaz Basadien, along with the experience of Kenya star Brian Onyango and Ivory Coast hard man Ismaël Touré.
So, Smith has had to patiently bide his time in the Diski (reserve) team.
Barker, though, feels Smith’s time will come, due to his “immense talent”.
“Tylon had a special tournament,” he said. “I think he was a cornerstone of our (Amajita) success.
“He’s got all the attributes to be a really top-class defender and player, not only for the club, but for the country. He’s a player with immense talent.
“He has a really bright future ahead of him and a fantastic tournament.
“So, for him to have achieved what he achieved is really massive, and well done to him.”
Smith will be hoping for at least a place on the bench in Stellies’ final game of the season on Saturday when they face neighbours Cape Town City in the Western Cape derby at the DHL Stadium.
