Former Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Matthew Booth has shared his insights on the growing trend of SA players returning to the Betway Premiership after spells abroad.
Playing in European elite leagues has long been a coveted goal for South African footballers. Currently, a handful of local talents are making waves overseas, including Lyle Foster, Sphephelo Sithole, Gift Links, Luke Le Roux, and Luther Singh.
However, the allure of home has recently brought some of these stars back to South Africa. Tashreeq Matthews, formerly of the Swedish Allsvenskan side IK Sirius, joined Mamelodi Sundowns in January. The Tshwane giants further bolstered their squad with the acquisition of Kobamelo Kodisang from Portugal’s Primeira Liga.
While not a permanent return, former Leicester City FC midfielder Khanya Leshabela had a brief stint with Cape Town City FC on loan before moving on.
In addition, versatile midfielder Keanin Ayer is also back in SA training with SuperSpprt United after parting ways with Danish 1st Division side Næstved Boldklub.
MATTHEW BOOTH ON SA PLAYERS ABROAD RETURNING TO THE PSL
The retired defender says it’s disappointing for SA players playing abroad to return to play in the DStv Premiership. However, he says players shouldn’t be judged for their choices in wanting to come back.
“It’s disappointing to see players coming back to South Africa, but each player has a different story, a different reason,” Booth told FARPost. “So we must put that into consideration, we mustn’t label all the players the same. We don’t know all the stories behind it.
“But I can see why players are willing to come back to SA and join teams like Sundowns, because of the finances and wanting to win things [trophies]. It’s a strong attraction wanting to comeback to SA.
“But I think in the ideal world, we want our players to stay abroad, even if it’s in the second-tier leagues. I think that’s the place to be, that’s the place to produce and up skill players.”
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