From not making a single appearance in the PSL to signing a Championship contract, young Tylon Smith has the right mental strength to overcome tough challenges away from home, Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker believes.
Announced as a new player at Queens Park Rangers in England, Smith is one of those special cases who have a great story to tell, having come from humble beginnings to being a division below the Premier League.
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Smith was named player of the tournament at the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations which South Africa won back in April and attracted interest abroad, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The former Stellies DStv Diski Challenge defender was only interested in a move to England and the 20-year-old now has to deal with the challenge of being away from home at a young age.
Barker may not have worked with Smith in the first team, but is well aware that the young defender is strong mentally.
"He is a strong character. He grew up tough. There won't be any issues with him. I think he has a real desire to change his life and to be successful. I think he will overcome the challenges that come with being in a foreign country. He's got a good agent in Rob Moore, who has moved many players overseas and is based in the UK, so I am sure he will get good support, and we will make sure we keep in touch with him," Barker told Soccer Laduma.
Barker had an opportunity to speak to the junior international to give him some advice on his move.
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"Yes, I did speak to him (before he left). It was so exciting for him. Coming from where he did was not an easy path for him, so I am really excited that he changed his life and he can change the lives of his family," Barker said.
"From not playing a single minute in the PSL to going straight to the Championship is massive. I told him that he deserves to be there and that he should provide and have belief in what he can offer. Be coachable and enjoy the ride. He could be anything. He could do well there and move on to higher levels. We will make sure to send a message every three or four months to see how he is doing."
