THE sudden DEATH of Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, Jayden “Grootman” Adams, has not only left football followers in the world in despair but has also cost Bafana Bafana a unique talent in world football.
This is the opinion of Pitso “Jingles” Mosimane when he commented on the death of this player which left the ‘football family’ in disbelief.
Adams (25), who played all four matches for Bafana in the World Cup in Mexico, Canada and the United States of America (USA), was found dead on Saturday morning in Cape Town.
The death of this player, who was not admired by the fans of Sundowns and Stellenbosch FC where he grew up, has shocked the whole world from Fifa manager Gianni Infantino, celebrities and political parties.
As messages of condolence continue to pour in, Mosimane, who is being appointed as Bafana’s coach, commented on the pain felt by Adams’ parents and mourned the lost talent of the national team.
“This is a sad time for all those connected with Bafana, Sundowns and Jayden’s family, which is the most affected by this tragedy.
“He has lost a family of footballers all over the world, which was proven by the respect of Fifa at the World Cup matches this weekend.
“He was young. He left the world early. He was one of the most important players for Bafana as it played in the World Cup.
“We all know that he was a midfielder but there is no reason to believe that he was playing in this position on the field. He was able to use the ball when it was on him,” said Mosimane to the media.
“He knew all the spaces he had to be in if the ball was not in his possession. The danger of the enemy was seen by him first. Therefore, there is no reason why he was playing there, but this made him a weapon that came out slowly and the years passed in world football.
“Bafana have lost a player who is like a blessing to the coach because he was gifted in the same way in all stages of playing in the field.
“It’s sad because we can find another player like him but his family will not be able to fill his place. Although we may be lucky (to find another player), I don’t believe we can find one exactly like him.”