Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana legend Siphiwe Tshabalala backs talisman Percy Tau. Image: (@PercyTau/instagram)
Bafana Bafana lifeline for Percy Tau after Al Ahly exit rumours?
At 29 years old, Percy Tau isn’t done yet.
Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana legend Siphiwe Tshabalala backs talisman Percy Tau. Image: (@PercyTau/instagram)
Several Bafana Bafana fans have been writing obituaries for Percy Tau after an underwhelming Afcon for the Lion of Judah. There could be a way back though, if he leaves Al Ahly.
TAU REACHES AL AHLY CROSSROADS
Percy Tau is reportedly up for sale according to SoccerLaduma. That is via Sport.Elwatannews, believes the 29-year-old wide attacker is surplus to requirements at Al Ahly. The aforementioned Egyptian outlet mentions that Tau, Malian midfielder Aliou Dieng and Tunisian star Dhaoui Cristo, three of the club’s foreign stars, will be sold to free up funds. Tau has one year left on his current deal, so Al Ahly will need to act fast by selling now or pinning him down to extended terms. The former options seem likelier at this juncture.
Tau is still a key player for Bafana Bafana who reached the semi-finals of Afcon. However, he did draw criticism for his profligacy in front of goal. If he can secure a move back to South Africa and the DStv Premiership, it could pave the way for a smoother potential redemption arc.
YOUNG, DYNAMIC FORWARDS WAITING IN THE WINGS
South Africa’s forward line needs more dynamism and directness. Mihlali Mayambela showed his raw pace and power off the bench, while Bongokuhle Hlongwane, prolific in the MLS, wasn’t included in Hugo Broos’ Afcon squad. Both could lay a viable claim to starting berths for Bafana for years to come. Orlando Pirates man Evidence Makopa showed he has the raw ingredients to make it work as the number 9, so it’s all about finding wide players who can thrive around a focal point striker. Tau, formerly of Sundowns, Brighton, Club Brugge and Anderlecht, will be 30 in May. He can still contribute vital experience and know-how to the Bafana cause, but he might need to move closer to home to facilitate it.
Tau was not named in the Bafana’s most recent squad to take on Andorra and Algeria in friendly matches.
‘I talked to him and he said it was not a problem but I knew it was a problem,’ said the Bafana head coach, who wants to protect Tau from further criticism back home.
What are your thoughts regarding Percy Tau? Is it time for South Africa to move on from the Lion of Judah?
Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game.
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