Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding the future of Deano Van Rooyen, who has been linked with a move to Orlando Pirates.
Van Rooyen has been a standout performer for Stellenbosch in recent seasons, and his impressive displays have not gone unnoticed. With Pirates reportedly keen on strengthening their squad, the Soweto giants have emerged as strong contenders for the defender’s signature.
The 27-year-old enjoyed a standout 2023/24 campaign for the Western Cape outfit, featuring in 34 matches across all competitions and showcasing his defensive prowess that earned him a nomination for the Defender of the Season award at the 2024 PSL awards.
While the accolade ultimately went to Mamelodi Sundowns‘ Grant Kekana, Van Rooyen’s inclusion in the shortlist is a testament to his exceptional performances.
A crucial cog in Stellenbosch’s impressive 2023/24 season, Van Rooyen played a pivotal role in the club’s historic Carling Knockout Cup triumph over TS Galaxy. The victory marked a significant milestone for the club, underlining their growing stature in SA football. Stellenbosch’s consistent performances throughout the league campaign also secured them a third-place finish, earning a coveted spot in the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup.
WHAT DID STEVE BARKER SAY ABOUT DEANO VAN ROOYEN TRANSFER RUMOURS?
Van Rooyen’s impressive displays have attracted the attention of several top-flight clubs, including Pirates. As the transfer window heats up, Steve Barker said that Stellenbosch will be working tirelessly to fend off interest in their prized asset and secure his future at the club.
In addition, Barker revealed that Van Rooyen didn’t play in Sunday’s MTN8 semi-final victory over TS Galaxy due to injury.
“Deano is having a bit of a niggle. The last two days before a match against [TS Galaxy], he didn’t train. So it was a little bit more precautionary plus the conditions of the pitch, we felt a player like Kyle [Jurgens] would help with longer balls and playing a little bit direct,” Barker said.
“I wasn’t too sure if they’ll start a player like Samir Nurkovic; I know he didn’t play much in the pre-season, so we thought with those conditions of the pitch, Kyle would be more suited.
“We were also protecting Deano from further aggravating the injury, so that was the main course. Obviously, the media and speculations affect the player.
“We’ve always said and maintained that we want to keep our players. We feel that we are a team that can challenge for honours in the league as well as in cup competitions. And that’s our intention: to work as hard as possible to retain our squad.”
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