QPR DEFENDER SMITH IS OVER THE MOON AFTER HIS BAFANA CALL-UP

BAFANA Bafana defender Tylon Smith continues his steady rise, and after reaching another milestone with his maiden senior national team call-up, the youngster is eager to embrace the lessons that will come with the experience as South Africa prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).

The 20-year-old was part of the SA span that won the Under-20 Afcon earlier this year and has just returned from the U20 World Cup, a tournament that offered him valuable exposure on the global stage.

Although the senior national team is a groot step up, his inclusion provides an important foundation for SA’s future.

Grateful for the confidence shown in him by Bafana coach Hugo Broos, Smith expressed his appreciation for the chance to learn and absorb as much as possible from the tournament environment.

Smith wysed: “I want to thank the coach for giving me an opportunity to be part of the team.

“I watched online as the coach announced the team, and when he said my name I was grateful as a 20-year-old. It was emotional also because, from where I come from, it was a difficult year for me, but this was a great achievement for me to be part of the team.”

The former Stellenbosch FC defender’s rise has been gevaarlik. After emerging from the Winelands club, he was spotted by English side Queens Park Rangers, marking a major leap in his development.

Reflecting on his recent journey, Smith said he has worked hard to ensure his transition has been as smooth as possible.

He added: “It was a massive move for me from Stellenbosch FC to QPR. I reminded myself to stay calm and just do what is expected of me to do.

“And receiving this call-up, it was the same thing - coming here to learn from the players that are more experienced, take that and use it to grow as a player.”