JOHANNESBURG - Former Bafana Bafana captain Lucas Radebe still maintains that change is needed in South African football.
Radebe’s attempt to unseat the incumbent South African Football Association (Safa) President, Danny Jordaan proved futile when he was declared ineligible to stand for the presidency before the acrimonious elections a fortnight ago. Jordaan was re-elected unopposed after challenger Ace Ncobo decided to pull out in the last minute of the elections citing intimidation.
Speaking to the media in KaMhlushwa in Mpumalanga this week, Radebe made it clear that he believes the only way for South African football to improve is for former players to take charge.
“To be honest I wasn’t interested (in running for the presidency) because we knew how it was going to pan out. We still have to wait and see and I’m hopeful that in the near future I'll run. Change is needed obviously, change is needed in our football because we need to move forward. We need new ideas. What needs to be done is to rope in the players, the ex-professionals and have them work together with the administrators That can be much better," Radebe elaborated.
The Chief, as Radebe is affectionately referred to out at Leeds United in England where he played for many years, believes former players should be encouraged to get into the administration of the game.
"I don’t see why I should give up, especially if you look at our age group. I’m talking about that 1996 team (that won the Afcon). Most of us should play a role in Safa structures. It is very crucial and important for our football's growth.” he added.
Radebe is still searching for the right support structure where he can be affiliated to.
“We are working on that now. It is not only about affiliating. It is about getting into a good support structure. Obviously there’s a lot to learn. We were not aware of some of the rules. But it is most important that players work together,” Radebe explained.
I feel honored to have been a part of action. A big thank you to Selati Sugar for bringing this opportunity to the communities to have such fun. #SelatiCup pic.twitter.com/LDFutfr2Lt
— Lucas Radebe (@LucasRadebe) June 4, 2018