TS Galaxy star Bernard Parker says he will support Lucas Radebe’s ambition to become the president of SA Football Association (Safa).
This after reports that the former Leeds United captain is keen to run the mother body in the future. Parker was responding to reports in Sunday World.
Radebe has indicated that he is keen to challenge the incumbent Safa president Danny Jordaan in the future.
“I think it would be a good thing because he has gone through it as a player,” said Parker, speaking exclusively to BoyleSports this week.
“At administration level, I think he would make decisions based on his experience in terms of us growing as a footballing association and a nation.
“Former players who become presidents of their football associations tend to make a big difference and have an impact on their football, so I was happy to hear that he is considering it, and I wish him all the best.
“He will definitely be able to implement change. He played at the highest level in the Premier League, captained a great team in Leeds United and he’s got a whole lot of experience in terms of football at home too.
“So, I think he would make a difference when he’s in leadership.”
School football crucial
Parker said change should begin in schools, noting that school football is great for any child in terms of improvement and development.
“We should start at grassroots level and penetrate schools as much as we can and bring back those school inter-house tournaments and school inter-house leagues.
“If we go back to making sure that we have a solid foundation, I think it will make a big difference for the future of our football,” he said.
The BoyleSports brand ambassador also admitted that he would consider running for a top position in Safa in the future.
“I would definitely consider it one day in the future. But it will be a long, long journey and you must take the proper steps,” he said.
“Maybe I could become chairman of a football club and work my way up to gain as much knowledge and experience as I can in order for me to get there.
“I haven’t thought that far ahead, but it would be a great thing for any nation to have an ex-footballer running for presidency of the footballing association.”
