SA Under-20 coach Raymond Mdaka has revealed an honest reminder he sent to junior international and Stellenbosch FC defender Tylon Smith after his recent move to Queens Park Rangers.
Smith was officially unveiled by the EFL Championship side QPR on Wednesday from Stellenbosch FC for an undisclosed fee.
The 20-year-old only signed his first professional contract in October 2024, but has seen an incredible rise in his career in the last few months.
He helped Amajita lift the COSAFA U-20 Cup before helping the national team win the historic 2025 U-20 AFCON title. He was also named Player of the Tournament.
WHAT RAYMOND MDAKA TOLD THE STELLENBOSCH FC DEFENDER AFTER MOVE TO ENGLAND
Mdaka says he is not surprised by Smith’s recent move, as well as the other players who are part of the U-20 side.
“I am happy for them. We are not playing to end up in the U-20, they are also looking after their careers,” Mdaka told FARPost.
“Obviously it was just to congratulate him [Tylon Smith] and remind him that it’s not done,” added Mdaka.
“You need to work very hard. I believe if he behaves and works the way we know him, obviously, chances are that he will succeed.”
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT FOR SA UNDER-20 PLAYERS TO SECURE MOVES AND PROMOTION TO SENIOR TEAMS
“For them to be coming out of the U-20 team after the COSAFA Cup and AFCON, it’s impressive. It’s very impressive to see them getting into the next level or senior teams or moving abroad,” added Mdaka.
“It’s something that they want, but it also benefits the country. I believe it’s also a motivation for the rest of the boys to know that the opportunity is there and, given a chance, they can either join the other senior teams or be promoted to the next level.
“It also motivates those who are not within the team to say it’s possible. I think that’s what I mostly look at.”
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