In a revealing interview, Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has
detailed the complex decision-making process the club undergoes when parting
ways with players, balancing club discipline, player development, and the
broader good of South African football.
Barker explained that departures fall into distinct categories, each with
its own rationale. The first involves disciplinary issues, as was the case
with midfielder Darrel Matsheke. Despite giving the player a “lifeline”
which culminated in him scoring the winning penalty in the Carling Knockout,
off-field behaviour led to his exit.
“Unfortunately, sometimes players let themselves down with off-field issues
and behaviour, which is something we don’t tolerate,” Barker stated.
“Sometimes you make decisions for the benefit of the club and just have to
move on from players.”
Another category involves players who have simply outgrown the club and need
a new challenge for their career progression. Barker cited Jayden Adams as
an example, a player who had “done everything for the club” and earned a
move to a different level.
However, the most bittersweet exits are the club’s success stories—young
talents developed through their academy who attract overseas interest before
the club has fully benefited from them. Barker pointed to Tylon Smith, who
moved to Queens Park Rangers without making a Premiership appearance for
Stellenbosch.
“To see him come through our DDC… and go all the way to QPR… is always
satisfying for us,” Barker admitted. “But there’s always a little tinge of,
‘Maybe it would be nice to have him for a year or two.’”
Ultimately, Barker emphasized that the club’s philosophy is to create
pathways for players, even when it means losing them prematurely. This
approach, he argues, benefits the entire South African football landscape.
“When opportunities like that come for him and Olwethu Makhanya playing in
the MLS, you need to let them go for the greater benefit of South African
football,” Barker concluded. “The more players we have playing abroad, the
better.”
