Stellenbosch boss Steve Barker doesn’t want transfer rumours to rob Lelethu Skelem of his focus and urged his winger to rediscover his scoring touch.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Sowetan giants Kaizer Chiefs since his stellar form last season caught the eye of PSL rivals.
The local laaitie from Kayamandi bagged three goals last term, including the winner in last season’s bio-bubble derby against Cape Town City.
He was also instrumental in Stellies’ attack, setting up two goals and running opponents ragged with his partner-in-crime Ashley du Preez. This term, though, Skelem’s performance has dropped a notch or two, with just one strike and assists
But Barker says the whispers about a move to Gauteng aren’t true and they are just putting Skelem off his game.
The boss says: “We don’t let noise get too much in the way of things. Leletu has got to stay focused, keep working hard.
“He’s committed to the club. He just needs to continue working to get back to the [starting] XI.”
Barker has started Skelem from the bench in Stellies’ last five PSL matches and revealed that the U23 South Africa international is sukkeling with some personal challenges.
But he is backing the youngster to come good as the manne in maroon look improve on their ninth-placed league position.
Barker adds: “He’s our player until the end of the season and beyond.
“So it’s just about giving him the confidence, to keep developing, to keep growing and become a footballer we know he can be for us.”
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