Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has outlined why SA striker Lyle Foster’s game has improved at both the club and national levels.
The former Orlando Pirates striker made a switch to Burnley FC in the middle of last season before the club gained promotion to one of the world’s top leagues; the Premier League.
Despite The Clarets’ struggles in the English topflight this campaign, the 23-year-old has been a key player and a standout performer.
The Vincent Kompany-coached side sits 18th on the log standings after eight matches. So far, the goal poacher has been directly involved in five goals. Foster has found the back of the net three times and turned provider two times.
For the national team, Foster has scored four goals in last six appearances.
HUGO BROOS SAYS MOVING TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE HELPED LYLE FOSTER IMPROVE HIS GAME
According to the Belgian mentor, Foster is now a different and an improved player because of the standard of the Premier League.
“When you play against good opponents and strong opponents you become better. Foster became a better player since moving to Burnley FC,” said Broos.
“He becomes a better player because every day he’s playing with players who are better. And he’s playing games against teams who are better.
“So, this is very important that you have players abroad without forgetting those who are here, but it gives you something extra.”
Foster is in line to feature when Bafana Bafana face Eswatini and Ivory Coast in international friendly matches on 13 October and 17 October respectively.
The two matches are preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in November and next year’s Afcon finals in Ivory Coast.
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