Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has expressed his unwavering belief in the abilities of his midfielder Jayden Adams to shine for Bafana Bafana.
Barker believes Adams will excel at international level with Bafana when national coach Hugo Broos gives him an opportunities in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Adams earned his first Bafana call up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda following his impressive displays at Stelies this season.
Bafana will take on Benin on Saturday at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium and Rwanda away from home at Huye Stadium on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old Adams has featured in 15 games for Stellies across all competitions with two goals and four assists to his name. The midfielder has also been involved in four goals, scoring twice and creating two goals.
BARKER EXPRESSES CONFIDENCE IN ADAMS’ BAFANA BAFANA PROSPECTS
“Obviously, I’m very excited for him (Adams). I think he deserves it,” said Barker at SAFA House, where the Stellenbosch FC coach is attending the CAF A Licence course.
“He has had some appearances at junior national teams’ level and he has shown some good consistency this season. I think he is fully mature. He is getting close to 100 caps for Stellenbosch. That experience is starting to show in his play. Steve Barker is starting to influence matches.
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“He is starting to be a match-winner for us and he is showing good composure. He is undoubtedly one of the best technically gifted players in the country,” added Barker.
Barker also cautioned Adams to maintain his humility and avoid succumbing to the allure of his maiden call-up to the senior national team.
“He must enjoy, first; be proud of his achievements. Be proud of what he has done,” said Barker.
“He worked very hard when I started at Stellenbosch seven years ago. He used to come as a young player, sort of 14 or 15 years old, walking all the way from his home to Coetzenburg to train.”