Baxter must stay even if Bafana fail – Radebe

Former Bafana Bafana captain Lucas Radebe believes Stuart Baxter should stay as head coach of the national team, even if South Africa fail to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Bafana face Libya next month on neutral territory, because of the civil war there, and need at least a point to qualify for Egypt 2019.

“I expect us to get all three points, I think we have the talent,” said Radebe this week.

“I think the boys will be physically and mentally fit, they know what is at stake.”

Baxter told the media recently that he would be willing to quit if he could not qualify the side for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

“If we don’t qualify … I will tell the FA you’d better make sure you want me to carry on, because I’ll walk if you want,” said Baxter.

Radebe, however, defended the Bafana head coach.

“I don’t know the relationship he has with management or the association … obviously he knows why he is saying that, but it would be disappointing to see him stepping down,” said Radebe.

“I know there is a lot of expectation, but for me it is about the future of football in the country. You have to build a team … it is not only about the results, but about making sure the team plays well, and that there is a succession plan where the structures are right.”

Radebe was speaking at the launch of Betway’s 12th man programme. Betway, along with Radebe, have selected 10 male and female footballing legends, that they will put through a six month skills programme, where they will get a chance to do a variety of courses, including a Safa D Licence and a KNVB training course.

The 10 legends are Portia Modise, Gloria Hlalele, Sibongile Khumalo, Khabo Zltha, Alfred Phiri, Andries Mpondo, Edward Motale, Steve Lekoelea and Steve Sekano.

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