Ex-Bafana Bafana star Benni McCarthy continues to see his stock rise as a manager. The 43-year-old has overseen an impressive campaign for Amazulu in the PSL so far.
Sunday’s 1-0 victory over bottom side Black Leopards saw Usuthu move up to third place in the Premiership. Following news of Ntseki’s recent dismissal as Bafana Bafana boss, there is a growing thought that McCarthy could be the right candidate to fill in that vacant role.
Back to the PSL, Amazulu are level on points with second-placed Golden Arrows and only three off leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. However, the Brazilians are more or less ‘run-away’ champions when you consider that they have three games outstanding.
Regardless, the point remains that no one expected Amazulu to be so far up table at this stage of the season. It’s safe to say he has more than exceeded expectations. For further emphasis, only four sides have scored more than Amazulu’s 28 goals scored in the PSL so far.
After Ntseki’s recent failure on the continental stage, the debate remains regarding who should come in as a suitable replacement.
Former Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker is among those who believe a local name should replace Ntseki, and singles out McCarthy as a worthy choice.
“I think they should have thought of maybe someone like Benni McCarthy or people like that, who can come in and turn this whole thing around,” said Barker as quoted by Goal.
“No doubt about it‚ he [McCarthy] is a breath of fresh air. He knows the game at the highest level and he has played and scored at the highest level.
“He has made his mark at national level as a player and he is now making his mark as a coach locally. He is the guy that should be able to take us forward.
Another ex-South Africa coach in Augusto Palacios also shares the same thoughts as Barker. Speaking recently on his pick for the next Bafana Bafana manager, Palacios said as quoted by Kickoff: According to my opinion, Benni McCarthy is the best option at the moment”.
“Benni knows the players. He is coaching in the PSL. He has played for Bafana Bafana before.
“He has the pedigree, character and has played football at the top international level. If they give him the position, he must be allowed to choose his own technical team.”
McCarthy took over as Amazulu boss last December when they were struggling for form, with only one win from seven games. From potential relegation candidates, Amazulu have now risen to the very top and look set for a top four finish.
McCarthy is the mastermind behind their revival and he continues to receive praise for his exploits with Usuthu. Following rceent praise and clamours from fans alike, it won’t be a surprise if McCarthy is named as the next Bafana Bafana manager.