Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker has outlined why he believes the FIFA break due to the ongoing 2022 Qatar World Cup came at a good time for the club.
Stellies were in camp then took a well deserved one week off before going back into full swing training.
The squad regrouped most recently ahead of the resumption of the DStv Premiership at the end of this month.
STEVE BARKER EXPLAINS…
According to Barker, the mid-season break was a breather to improve the team in every department.
“The FIFA break came at a good time for us as a club. We’ve capitalized on the opportunity to really work, improve the squad and work on our principles that we apply during matches,” Barker told the club’s media department.
“It’s been a good preparation, the energy and enthusiasm around the squad has been on high level.
“The break afforded us with the opportunity to re-galvanize, refresh and work on certain elements that we need to improve on.”
Barker further stated that there are no new injury concerns in the squad. All players are fit except for Juan Ortiz who is out with a long term injury.
“Currently, there are no injuries in the squad which is good for us. Our first part of the season, we had a lot of niggling injuries, couple of long term injuries,” he said.
Update is Juan Ortiz who has been out for a while having damaged his ACL in the last game of the season against Cape Town City. Otherwise everyone is in good spirits and health.”
Stellenbosch are gearing up to face Chippa United on the 30th of December.
Both sides will be aiming to start the second half of the season on a bright note after dropping points in their last matches respectively.
The Stellies lost one nil to AmaZulu, whilst Chippa were held to a 3-3 stalemate by Richards Bay.
RELATED STORY: Stellenbosch boss on how Chiefs can get Du Preez firing
