SuperSport United midfielder Keanin Ayer has revealed two reasons for his return to South Africa after spending over a decade abroad.
The Right to Dream academy product was one of the few signings made by Gavin Hunt to reinforce his side ahead of the start of the season.
Before joining Matsatsantsa, he played for three European clubs – Varbergs BoIS, Sandefjord, and Naestved BK.
Ayer says he joined the local side with the hope of enhancing his chances for a Bafana Bafana call-up. Most of Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad comprises most players who ply their trade in the Betway Premiership rather than abroad.
Additionally, the 24-year-old midfielder conveyed a strong sense of longing for home after being away for more than ten years.
AYER EXPLAINS DECISION TO RETURN TO SA
“First of all, I wanted to come back home because it’s been way too long since I had the family around me,” Ayer told FARPost.
“And you know in terms of you having your loved ones. I should stay alone everyone in every team I’ve been to in Europe.
“You enjoy in the training ground with teammates but when you get home, you’re alone.
“Sometimes, that’s not good for the head, and you want to be clear in the head so you can perform well and play at your best.
“But basically in simple terms, I missed home and wanted to come back. It was like a personal decision.”
The Boksburg-born maestro highlighted his intention to return to Europe in the near future, stating, “Definitely, I know the time will come and I can go back and it’s also in my agent’s plan for me, maybe in two seasons to go back.”
“But then my head should be in a better space.”
SS UNITED MIDFIELDER HOPES RETURN TO SA WILL ENHANCE BAFANA BAFANA’S CALL-UP CHANCES
“Mostly, it’s players from this side [who get call-ups], so I don’t know maybe they are doing well,” he added.
“But for me, that’s why I came back. If I’m doing well, I might get a chance.”
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