Baxter compares Mothiba to Premier League legend

by Bertin Basson

Tuesday Oct 16, 2018. 15:00

South Africa head coach Stuart Baxter reserved special praise for striker Lebo Mothiba following the country's emphatic 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier win over the Seychelles on Saturday.

The France-based forward was among the goals in a 6-0 thumping of the island nation at the FNB Stadium, as Bafana Bafana moved top of Group E with seven points from three matches.

Mothiba has been in good form in the French Ligue 1 and Baxter believes that the forward has similar qualities to that of a former Newcastle United great.

“Shaun [Bartlett] had a conversation with all strikers in terms of their finishing and when a top striker like Shaun gives you ideas and that helps," Baxter was quoted as saying by SAFA.net.

“Lebo Mothiba led the lines with his bullish play; the Alan Shearer type of player. He bullied centre-backs and had no moments of peace. I was pleased with Lebo, his general attitude and work rate."

Bartlett, who made a name for himself at then English Premier League club Charlton Athletic, was roped in by Baxter in an attempt to solve the country's scoring woes.

Bafana Bafana are away to the Seychelles in Victoria on Tuesday. Kick-off is at 15h30 CAT.