Orlando Pirates Head of Development Augusto Palacios says he is not surprised to see Bucs youngster Nhlakanipho Ntuli doing well in the COSAFA U20 Championship.
Ntuli has so far scored two goals in two appearances for Amajita in this competition.
"I remember when I first discovered this boy that he had a potential to be one of the best players that South Africa has ever produced," Palacios told the Siya crew.
"I accompanied him to Holland when he went there for trials at FC Twente. He started his trial there with the U15s, but they said he was way ahead of that division in terms development.
"They then asked him to train with the U18s and even in that division, he excelled. After asking him to train with the U19s they offered him a five year contract. I think this boy is going to follow in the footsteps of players like Benni McCarthy and Steven Pienaar, who started in Holland and went on to achieve great things in England," added Palacios.
Meanwhile, Palacios believes that Ntuli could be a great asset for Bafana Bafana in the future.
"You saw how he has been playing for the U20s. He controls the ball well and he is skilful. He has power in his feet as well and can shoot from a distance. Lastly, he has an eye for goals," continued Palacios.
Asked if Ntuli should be given a chance at Pirates, Palacios said: "I have always said that any player that has great potential should be given a chance to show his worth."
