Former Leeds United captain and Bafana Bafana stalwart Lucas Radebe is steadfast in his call for change within the South African Football Association (Safa) structures. Radebe has always been vocal about his intention to one day run for the presidency of the national
association.
Radebe has never been shy to show his keenness to challenge the incumbent Safa president, Danny Jordaan, to lead the organisation. But the national association has reiterated that Radebe, who played for Leeds in the English Premier League with aplomb, must first be part of his Local Football Association (LFA).
“With Danny Jordaan, it is not about him still being good or relevant to SA football, but I think we need new ideas. I mean he has been there long enough, and we have seen some great things, but I think it is about time that we need progress in terms of personnel, to take our football forward,” Radebe opened up to Sunday World this week.
“At some point, yes I am interested in becoming Safa president – I did not say I want to take him (Jordaan) out, but I want to say that it is my wish that one day I should serve as Safa president. “For what they have done for me, I need to give back. Why do I have to start at the LFA? I think it has to be clarified. I work with the community, I work with the LFA in Diepkloof. It is not just me looking for a position, it does not matter. I am an advocate for change, it does not have to be me, but I would love to be part of the structures.
“If I say I’d like to be president I am becoming personal with Danny, and that is a problem. I speak to Danny, we have a very good relationship. Actually, we are mending our relationship, that’s what I want,” he added.
Radebe has also explained his position within Safa as a member of the technical committee.
“No I am not part of the Safa technical committee – I have never attended a seating of the committee, it is what I hear, not what I am told, or not what I am asked to do. It is different if I got a call or letter saying come and be part of the technical committee or can we please invite you to be part. I think that makes sense rather than hearing from people or just getting a letter saying that you are supposed to be in the technical committee setup.”
A member of the Safa NEC said the organisation needs people like Radebe to share their expertise from their international experience. “It is about time Lucas is part of the Safa structures and technical team.
Safa technical committee chairman Jack Maluleka said: “I remember his name was there. The administration was sending forms to all members who must serve and I am not sure if the administration did send confirmation forms to him. I am not sure if he is our
member or not.”
