SuperSport United assistant coach Andre Arendse has advised South Africa not to lose young defender Ime Okon to Nigeria.
The South African-born Okon, who has a Nigerian father, has been a shining star at Matsatsansa a Pirori this season in his defensive duties and has on several occasions been touted as a rising star.
Arendse, speaking this week during a media press conference, said South Africa should not make the mistake and lose the talented defender, who is eligible to represent the Super Eagles.
"Ime (Okon) is the next one. Like Rowen Williams on that radar, and I don't want to hype him up and put him under pressure and put him up there but he is the best because he is 20 years old. I think he is super talented, a super talent. He is one for the future," the 1996 Afcon-winning goalkeeper said to journalists.
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Arendse added that Okon will be even better than most of the defenders who he Arendse played with at national team level.
"I know what I am talking about. I don't want to mention names but I had the privilege of playing behind some of the best defenders in South Africa. You guys know what I am talking about and I am telling you now in a few years time he is going to be up there and even better than those ones. So let's not lose him. Let's make sure we keep him. He is definitely one for the future," Arendse concluded.
The youngster has so far played 26 games for SuperSport United and his future looks bright.
