Now that Safa have their saak with the Bafana Bafana coach in order, it looks like it’s all change for the national football team.
Hugo Broos gets his feet under the desk at Safa House on Monday and then gets some extra time to prepare his team, with his opening World Cup qualifiers now moved from next month to September.
Broos didn’t mince his words about the need for Bafana to refresh, with the Belgian keen to bring in younger and hungrier players.
He will probably be looking to get rid ageing star like goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, midfielders Dean Furman, Thulani Serero and Andile Jali, while manne like Ruzaigh Gamildien and Bradley Grobler will be used sparingly, if at all.
Also, there is a huge question mark hanging over skipper Thulani Hlatshwayo’s head. The Orlando Pirates defender is having a nightmare season and could be on his way out.
Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams would be a great candidate to take the armband.
He should be part of a spine anchored by Rivaldo Coetzee – whether he is in Mamelodi Sundowns midfield role or in defence – with Bongani Zungu and Percy Tau.
While there may be questions around Coetzee and Zungu’s temperament, these manne are talented and consistent.
Some added responsibility may do them good.
Rushine de Reuck needs more game time.
Plus Premier League hopefuls like attacking midfielders Khanya Leshabela (Leicester) and Kegs Chauke (Southampton) must be in the setup.
The most important piece of the puzzle though is finding a regular goalscorer.
I’d like to see a hungry Fagrie Lakay get sharpened up for the Olympics, where David Notoane’s squad is brimming with future Bafana stars.
I had a chat with Bafana legend and Cape Town City assistant coach Aaron Mokoena and he says that’s is where the next coach must be looking for players.
It’s not a bad place to start.