Botes happy with Namibian players in South Africa

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Sunday Jul 24, 2016. 12:53

Speaking to AfricanFootball.com after he was unveiled by Platinum Stars, striker Henrico Botes says he feels he never left the club.

The former Namibian international skipper said he received a warm welcome in Phokeng and is looking forward to the new 2016/17 Premier Soccer League season.

Botes was speaking at the club's base in Phokeng, Rustenburg on Thursday afternoon where the club also announced a number of signings including his countryman, Benson Shilongo.

“The culture is still the same and I'm back looking forward to the new season," said Botes.

"I think the new players and the old guys are doing their best to get fit so we can do our best next season.”

HENRICO BOTES: I'M DIKWENA'S LUCKY CHARM

Speaking about the fact that there are rising numbers of the Brave Warriors players in the PSL and in the National First Division, the ex-Moroka Swallows and Bidvest Wits forward says he is delighted about their presence.

This follows the call by the Brave Warriors coach Ricardo Mannetti who urged the players to join overseas clubs especially in the South African leagues.

“It is always great to see the numbers growing and it gives the coach a greater pool to choose from. The PSL is one of the best on the continent," adds the ex-Namibian international.

“They're up there in the SADC region and playing in South Africa is a dream come true and I hope my countrymen will do the country proud.

“I'm also here to lend a helping hand where I can off the field, especially for Shilongo. I hope he can settle down quickly.”

Among others in the Absa Premiership and NFD are players such as Peter Shalulile (Highlands Park), Willem Nwedihanga and Ronald Ketjijere (University of Pretoria), Deon Hotto (Bloemfontein Celtic), Maximillian Mbaeva (Golden Arrows) and Terdious Uiseb who will feature for Milano United in the NFD.