Many professional players in South Africa grew up in rough areas and had to overcome a lot of adversity to get to the top. Can you name some footballers who fit into this bracket?
When you think of crime-ridden areas that have produced top players, names such as Westbury, Soweto, KwaMashu, the Cape Flats and Khayelitsha spring to mind.
Today, though, I take a look at another talent hotbed in the south of Durban, Wentworth.
Affectionately known as the "Wenties", this neck of the woods has produced some big names. Let's take a look at who they are.
Gary Goldstone
A firefighter turned professional footballer, Goldstone hails from Wentworth and made a name for himself at Kaizer Chiefs. He also had spells at AmaZulu, Bloemfontein Celtic and Maritzburg United.
Clinton Larsen
Recently unveiled as the new coach of Golden Arrows, Larsen honed his skills at Cherians FC, a prominent amateur club in Wentworth, before going on to win the inaugural PSL title with Manning Rangers. The former midfield maestro also had a stint at Orlando Pirates and represented Bafana Bafana at senior level.
Regan Stuart
A promising left winger who never reached his full potential because of all the injuries he suffered. Stuart came through AmaZulu's junior ranks before starring for Manning Rangers.
Deolin Mekoa
The Maritzburg United youngster is flying the Wentworth flag high as he's currently representing South Africa in Senegal with the U23 side. Mekoa is hot property at the moment and speculation is rife that he is on Kaizer Chiefs' radar. After all, Amakhosi coach Steve Komphela worked with him last season at the Team of Choice. Before strutting his stuff in the paid ranks, the 22-year-old played for Cavalliers in "Wenties".
What do you make of Wentworth's talent?
