Santos was so loaded with talent when they won the league in the 2002/’03 season, one sometimes forgets that Bradley August also bagged a League Winners’ medal as a youngster coming into the team, which not many Cape Town-born players did during their respective careers.
Hence, August, a former Bafana Bafana player, has expressed his delight after being officially unveiled as the head coach of Santos’ ABC Motsepe League team for the new season.
The well-travelled and experienced Bradley August has broken his silence on his return not only to coaching, but also to his former Santos side, where he had had big success as a young professional.
August replaces guys like Russel Davids and Winston Zeederberg, amongst others, who have assisted the club where they could, and with his former club, one can expect August to make it personal and to return the club to its glory years.
“Firstly, the news of Crystal Palace probably came as a shock, and it wasn’t nice, but it is all water under the bridge now,” August revealed to No Bones with Jones. “I didn’t want to just jump straight into something,” August stated.
“There were one or two other opportunities that came along. But I was patient because I wanted to be part of something at a club that has a whole junior structure and set-up that can feed into the top structure, you know.
“What Santos offered, I liked, and I must tell you that I am very excited and raring to go,” August added. “I came into the side with big names and I had to look up to them, obviously. But I’ve played about 12 games or so, and I’ve got my winners’ medal to show for it, you know. So, for me it’s like a full-circle moment as well.”
Santos, unfortunately, were bundled out of the Nedbank Cup this weekend in Mossel Bay during the preliminary rounds with more drama set to play out still. Needless to say, Santos has to play catch-up in the league as well for this season, which is already five games into the new campaign.
August, who has now gone full circle, is fully aware that he has his work cut out for him to turn the fortunes of the People’s Team.
“The foundation laid by the guys in the meantime should also be noted as the players are looking sharp for a side that hasn’t really played competitive football for a couple of months,” August pointed out.
“I’m also excited by the fact that they lost only one game last season, which is an indication that their home venue is a bit of a fortress, which is how things should be,” he concluded.
Even though Santos has a decent squad that can surely compete in the league, August’s ability as an experienced coach will surely be tested.
Santos owner Goolam Allie has confirmed that August has officially taken over the reins at his club.
“He will be assisted by Peter Kirsten and Gershon Gouvias,” Allie confirmed to No Bones with Jones.
“Santos needed a coach who is more authoritative and commands a bit more respect from the players,” Allied added.
PICTURE SUPPLIED BY AMN STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY
