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Steve Barker, the coach of Stellenbosch, has voiced his worries regarding the team’s lack of squad depth as they navigate a demanding schedule filled with both local and international matches.
Stellies suffered their second straight loss in the CAF Confederations Cup, going down 3-1 at home against Morocco’s RS Berkane at Moses Mabhida on Sunday.
With a relatively young squad comprised of 29 players, the lack of a rotational approach between matches appears to have affected the Winelands club, which has played more competitive fixtures (20) than any other side in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
In comparison, league competitors Mamelodi Sundowns boast a roster of 41 players and have skillfully employed a comprehensive rotation system since the beginning of the season. The Stellies coach contends that having a larger squad would significantly aid his team, especially as they participate in several tournaments.
“It’s definitely an advantage; many overlook the fact that we’ve already played 20 matches since August. By the end of the year, we’ll have completed 10 league games, meaning from January to May, we’ll face an extra 20 league matches alongside the CAF and Nedbank,” Barker remarked.
The MTN8 finalist coach reasserted his stance, stating, “It’s not a simple matter, and I must confess that it’s unrealistic to just rest seven or eight players. It’s about selecting the right players based on the context and the specific match, requiring us to be strategic, adapt to situations, learn rapidly, and correct our errors as we move ahead.”
While managing with a tight squad, the Durban-born coach also faces the loss of a critical player, forward Lehlohonolo Mojela, who will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury.
Barker discussed the ramifications of this injury on the team, highlighting the significant role Mojela could have played in their CAF matches, and expressed his hopes for potential acquisitions during the January transfer window.
“We’re aiming to compete in this tournament next year, so it’s crucial for us to finish in the top three. I genuinely believe that Mojela’s absence is critical. He is the perfect player to challenge North African teams with his speed and fierceness. We really miss him, and we hope to bolster the squad a bit in January, especially considering the taxing schedule from January to May,” the 56-year-old coach explained.
Despite a tough start in the CAF Confederations Cup, Barker remains optimistic about progressing to the knockout stages. Stellies are set to revive their prospects when they square off against Angola’s CD Luanda Sul, which the coach has termed a cup final, next Saturday in Luanda.
