Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker believes midfielder Jayden Adams received a “massively important experience as an individual” representing Bafana Bafana at the Africa Cup of Nations.

South Africa walked away with the bronze medal after defeating DR Congo in the third-place playoffs at the AFCON.

The 22-year-old featured twice for Bafana, including their 4-0 victory over Namibia in the group stages as well as their quarter-final victory over Cape Verde.

Barker believes that Adams gained valuable experience playing against some of Africa’s and Europe’s top players.

“I think playing in the Africa Cup of Nations will have been a massively important experience for Jayden as an individual,” Barker told his club’s official website.

“Having the opportunity to rub shoulders with players who play in the top European leagues will have been invaluable, and being part of the team that went on to win the bronze medal must have been really special for him.

“His presence at the competition was special for the club as well as we want to contribute to the success of South African football and supply players across all age groups with the national teams.

“So, to have a player representing Stellenbosch at the AFCON was massive for us and, of course, him being a local player from Stellenbosch makes it all the more special.

“He gave a good account of himself when called upon and we would like to commend him, and congratulate the entire Bafana Bafana squad and technical team on their achievements in Ivory Coast,” he concluded.

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