Stellenbosch versatile player Kyle Jurgens says his coach Steve Barker can count on him to replace former captain Deano van Rooyen at the right back position, with the latter after he was sold to Orlando Pirates. 

Unforeseen changes and departures at Stellenbosch have made room for new opportunities and interesting endeavors for new talent, in this case, 20-year-old Jurgens.

The Stellies academy graduate was promoted to the first-team squad as a natural central midfielder in 2020, after a noticeable campaign in the club’s U23 reserve side. 

Despite plying his trade at Cape Wineland’s club as a midfielder for most parts, the departure of the former club captain has seen the youngster take responsibility and serve as a replacement in the vacant right-back position. 

The Stellies rookie reflected on his new task saying, “Firstly, I would like to say good luck to Deano. He’s been great for the team, and I wish him well. Secondly, stepping up (to replace) him is a great thing. It’s a great deal for me.” 

Jurgens has since played a total of three games in his new position, with the most recent being the most grueling, edging Mamelodi Sundowns 1-0 in the first leg MTN8 semifinal on Wednesday. He will be expected to play a vital role in stopping Sundowns in the second leg semi-final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday (15:00). 

The Carling Cup champion accepts this new challenge as an opportunity to demonstrate gratitude to coach Barker for showing unwavering belief in a young talent like himself. 

“I will take it like I am ready because I never really grew up with getting things my way. I will take this opportunity with both hands and show the coach that I am grateful for what he has done for me so far,” declared Jurgens. 

Having made his first mark in top-flight football, the young talent expressed great optimism, confidently affirming, “I am excited about reaching my career goals and I am ready to take on new challenges and make my mark.”