Thulani Hlatswayo, the former captain of the South African national team, has offered some valuable advice to Ime Okon, a talented defender playing for SuperSport United. The 20-year-old Okon, who was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father, is facing a tough decision regarding which national team to represent.
With eligibility to play for both Nigeria and South Africa, Okon has a big decision to make. However, Hlatswayo believes that choosing South Africa would be the best option for the young defender’s career.
In a recent interview with Goal, Hlatswayo shared his thoughts on why Okon should stick with South Africa. “I have told him he needs to stay in South Africa because it will be difficult for him to crack the Nigeria national team,” Hlatswayo said.
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He continued, “To be able to crack the Nigerian national team, he needs to play in Europe — but we need him in Bafana Bafana. When you look at our centre backs, Mothobi Mvala has injuries, there is also Grant Kekana and Siyanda Xulu — and I read Siyabonga Ngezana had an issue with his travel documents, but I don’t know what is happening there. His father is from Nigeria and mother from South Africa.”
Okon has been a key player for SuperSport United this season, making 18 league appearances and contributing to the team’s success as they currently sit in third place on the PSL table.
The advice from Hlatswayo comes at a crucial time for Okon, who must weigh his options and consider the impact of his decision on his future in international football. With the support of experienced players like Hlatswayo, Okon can make an informed choice that will benefit both himself and the South African national team.
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As the debate continues over Okon’s national team allegiance, fans are eagerly awaiting his decision and hoping that he will choose to represent South Africa on the international stage.
