Former Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Shaun Bartlett has joined TS Galaxy Football Club as an assistant coach to Owen Da Gama.
Bartlett has been clubless since parting ways with Amakhosi at the end of last season where he served in an identical capacity under the tutelage of then coach Ernst Middendorp.
Da Gama took over the coaching reins from Zipho Dlangalala at TS Galaxy last week, leading the club for the first time this past weekend when they conceded a 1-0 defeat to Chippa United at the Mbombela Stadium.
Bartlett is no stranger to working with Da Gama as the pair were previously together at the SA U23 side as well as at Bloemfontein Celtic when Bartlett was still a player.
Da Gama has since opened up about his decision to rope in Bartlett to his technical team.
‘I recommended Shaun because I’ve worked with him in the past. I coached him at Bloemfontein Celtic when he came back from overseas. I also worked with him as an assistant in the U23s. I know his talent and his commitment to the game. Most importantly, I admire his work ethic. I know almost all his characteristics. We have to work very hard now. He understands the South African game very well,’ Da Gama told his club’s official website.
‘I’m happy that he is on board. Now, it is all systems goes. Together with coaches Essau Mtsweni, Ashley Makhanya and Phuphu Mohlaba, I believe that we will steer this team to greater heights. It might take time but we will eventually get there.’
Bartlett, meanwhile, is delighted to have joined the Rockets and reuniting with Da Gama, while stressing the importance of helping the club climb higher up the league table.
‘I’m delighted to join the club. I’m looking forward to the opportunity and to the prospect of getting the club higher on the league table,’ Bartlett explained.
‘It is good to reunite with coach Owen Da Gama. TS Galaxy is a good club in a sense that you can grow as a coach. Being new in the league means that whatever that you do get recognised. We have to get the club as high as possible on the log.’
