Newly signed Stellenbosch FC attacker Sanele Barns is unfazed by the stiff competition for places in Steve Barker’s squad next season.

Barns joined Stellenbosch from Richards Bay, where he played a crucial role in the club’s PSL survival through the playoffs.

However, he faces a daunting task, competing with the likes of Anicet Oura, Devin Titus, and Iqraam Rayners, whose formidable partnership propelled Stellenbosch to a third-place finish and their first Carling Knockout Cup triumph.

“They say to be the best, you must play with the best,” Barns told Sportswire. “So, I’m ready to compete.”

While his starting position is uncertain with the current squad, Barns has made a promise to coach Barker: “I will continue to work hard, and nothing will change,” he assured.

A silver lining for Barns is Stellenbosch’s qualification for the CAF club competition following their impressive league finish, which represent a chance to play as coach Barker will change his team now and again in the effort to handle domestic and continent schedule.

Their journey begins with a preliminary round clash against Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs, which will be hosted at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban due to Eswatini’s CAF and FIFA ban of not having a suitbale stadium.

“Moving to a new team always requires adjustments,” Barns acknowledged. “Stellenbosch, with their third-place finish and cup ambitions, represents a significant step forward for my career.”

The 27-year-old, nominated for the PSL Midfielder of the Season last term, contributed ten goals and eleven assists in 62 matches across two seasons for Richards Bay.