It’s tough to practise what you preach.
Often idealism and good intentions get lost when it comes to the doing.
But things always look rosy when you start out fresh. And that’s probably how Stuart Baxter feels after naming his new-look Bafana Bafana squad.
He did say that he was going to do some gardening and he is keen on planting some seeds.
With his schedule opening up in June and July after the World Cup in Russia, he gets to nurse some new players without any real pressure for them to perform.
And later this month, hopefully, we’ll see what they can do against the likes of Zimbabwe and Angola when they play in a four-nation tournament in Zambia.
Up front, Ryan Moon should get his chance.
The Kaizer Chiefs striker hasn’t exactly set the PSL on fire with his goalscoring exploits, but he looks like an exciting prospect.
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He shows the right sort of enthusiasm to help create chances for his team, but the confidence and killer instinct still needs to be honed.
Alongside him in the striking department, Lebo Mothiba and Percy Tau will be vying for game time.
It’s going to be exciting to see Siphesihle Ndlovu do his thing in midfield.
The 21-year-old is getting rave reviews at Maritzburg United and his work-rate is going be give Baxter a real boost in midfielder.
Then there is Phakamani Mahlambi.
The former Wits winger has just helped Egyptian giants Al Ahly to a record 40th league title.
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I haven’t seen that much of him since his move to the Mediterranean coast, but I hope his game has developed.
These days there isn’t really that much use for a traditional wing.
In the modern game, you can’t just hug the touchline.
You have to be able to cut inside and add a goal threat. And you have to be lethal.
That can be said of Orlando Pirates’ Theminkosi Lorch.
The Bucs flyer is a real threat, whether playing as a wingback or higher up the pitch.
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We also have a new goalkeeper in the group - Cape Town’s own Brandon Peterson. After going to the Olympics, he gets that chance to compete with Itumeleng Khune for SA’s No.1.
Reeve Frosler and Motjeka Madisha are in line for a place in defence.
Frosler has looked energetic on the flanks, combining that with discipline, while Baxter has long been a fan of centreback Madisha.