How Adams Managed To Quickly Settle In At Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has shed light on how he quickly settled in at Chloorkop after completing a high-profile move from Stellenbosch FC to the star-studded Brazilians in the January transfer window.
While he was constantly linked with some of the top clubs in the Betway Premeirship, including Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, it was the Tshwane giants who lured the Cape Town-born star to Gauteng on a three-year deal.
In the wake of his move, questions were raised on whether the 24-year-old would get ample game time at Sundowns, with the team boasting a plethora of quality and experienced options capable of dictating the play from the midfield.
However, Adams has since made 25 appearances across all competitions since signing for Masandawana. The ex-Stellies player credits his swift integration to continental experience with Steve Barker’s side and the help of Downs’ Bafana Bafana contingent.
“I think it helped me a lot because I play with a lot of [Sundowns] players at Bafana, and they helped me a lot. And at Stellenbosch, I think the CAF Confederations Cup helped me a lot also to sell my talent in Africa,” Adams noted.
“It’s not easy to come to Sundowns, there are a lot of good players here, and I just came here and did my best.”
With a host of Capetonians previously finding it difficult to adapt to life in the City of Gold and ultimately packing their bags, Adams named a few of his experienced teammates amongst those who helped him get accustomed to life in Gauteng on and off the pitch.
“I think there are a lot of players who helped me [to settle in]. Maybe off the field and on the field, like Ronwen [Williams], Iqraam [Rayners], Grant [Kekana], [Teboho] Mokoena, etcetera, ” the Bafana international added.
“But it’s not easy for me to come here with my family or leave my child at home. So, I just came here and hoped I could get a chance and showcase my talent.”
Sundowns will do battle against Pyramids FC of Egypt in the CAF Champions League final in their next encounter. The first leg is penciled in for 24 May in Pretoria, while the crucial return leg will be staged up North in Cairo on 1 June.
