Brooklyn Poggenpoel Inspired By Uncle Shane’s SuperSport Success

SuperSport United midfielder Brooklyn Poggenpoel aims to emulate his uncle, Shane Poggenpoel, by achieving similar success with the club.

Shane Poggenpoel won three league titles with SuperSport between 2008 and 2010 under current coach Gavin Hunt.

Brooklyn, 25, joined SuperSport from Chippa United at the start of the season and has made 15 appearances in all competitions so far. He insists his decision to join SuperSport was not influenced by his uncle.

“He won three, and if I can win one league trophy, it would be a major achievement for me,” Poggenpoel told Sportswire.

“I just want to come in, contribute, do well for the club, and get back to winning ways.

“It would be good to achieve some trophies. But at the moment, I just want to get the team playing well, getting results, and climbing up the table. Who knows what can happen?”

However, Brooklyn doesn’t possess the same combative style as his uncle Shane, who was known for his tough tackling and strength in central midfield, fitting perfectly into Hunt’s preferred style of a strong number 6.

Brooklyn, while also playing as a six, has a different approach and is not as physically imposing as Shane.

Born in 1999, Brooklyn only saw glimpses of his uncle’s playing career.

“He was very aggressive,” said Brooklyn, before being asked if he wants to imitate Shane’s style of play.

“To be honest, I was quite young when he played. I remember a few bits and pieces, but not too much.

“He was hardworking, did his job, and focused on the basics. If I can add that to my game, I think I will be good. He is one of the best holding midfielders I have ever watched.

“I think that’s the foundation if I can take what he did.”

Given Shane Poggenpoel’s extensive experience working with Hunt, Brooklyn was asked if that provides him with any advantages and whether Hunt is more direct with him.

“I think it does in a way,” he said.

“I don’t think Shane had much influence in getting me to the club. I think that was due to my hard work and doing what the coaches want.

“But I think it does play a factor – he can guide me and help me adapt to the environment. He told me what to expect and what to do.

“I think once you listen to the coach and do the right things, it will be easy for you,” he added.

“Do what is expected of you, and I’m sure it will be smooth sailing.”

It has been a frustrating season for Hunt and SuperSport, having lost their last four league matches. They currently sit 12th in the Betway Premiership table with 16 points from 16 matches.

Adding to their woes, they have scored only six goals and conceded 16, resulting in a negative goal difference of 10. They were recently defeated 3-0 by Mamelodi Sundowns at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday.