Former Santos forward Shaun Sopio has stunned many in local football circles after answering an unexpected call to come out of retirement and rejoin his beloved Greenwood Athletic.
No Bones with Jones can confirm that the 36-year-old veteran has officially returned to the Steenberg-based club, where he will reunite with former mentor Goodwin Lewis, who played a key role in persuading the experienced striker to pull on the boots once more.
Sopio, who also represented Seaside Spurs and Cape Town Spurs during his career, revealed that he had initially made peace with his decision to retire at the end of last season and had no intention of making a comeback.
“But why did I return? Good question,” Sopio told No Bones with Jones. “As I said, I had made up my mind at the back end of last season that it was enough for me. But the club, with the new coach coming in who I have a good relationship with, and chairman Mr Noel Isaacs simply not agreeing with the fact that I said I’m done and that the body can’t anymore.
“Then you think about the community in and around Steenberg that supports this club begging for one more season, and I guess I had to oblige,” the former PSL-star added.
With Lewis assembling a youthful squad for the new campaign, Sopio’s return could prove invaluable both on and off the field.
The veteran attacker believes his experience can help provide the leadership the squad requires as Greenwood looks to make an impact this season.
“I had a chat with the coach and that’s all he felt the squad was lacking, someone to guide this young and exciting group. I was approached by a few clubs, but Greenwood is my home,” Sopio concluded.
Greenwood’s chairman Noel Isaacs welcomed the return of one of the club’s favourite sons, describing Sopio as a player whose influence extends far beyond what he brings on the pitch.
“He is just a wonderful person and player who adds immense value, and his wealth of experience is invaluable,” said Isaacs.
After believing the curtain had fallen on his playing career, Sopio is set for one final chapter at the club closest to his heart. And if the Greenwood faithful have anything to do with it, the veteran’s story is far from finished.
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