Stellenbosch FC goalkeeper Sage Stephens has shared his thoughts on his non-selection for Bafana Bafana as he continues making noise on the field with solid displays.
Four years on and 108 appearances into his time at Stellenbosch, Stephens has given enough reason to be considered for Bafana with his performances a huge factor in the Cape Winelands club's recent rise.
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Could his omission be based on age considering that he is 33 having had a career spent as a back-up at Moroka Swallows, where he played only 12 games in five years before moving to AmaZulu FC in the First Division?
From there, his three-year stay at Cape Town City was only rewarding in the first season and he ultimately made the switch to Stellenbosch just before he turned 30.
"I wouldn't know about the criteria used by the coach (Hugo Broos) and why he picks a certain player, so I cannot comment on those things," responds Stephens when asked about the age factor disadvantaging his Bafana selection.
Stephens has won no Bafana caps even when Ronwen Williams has been absent or rested.
"But I would say my consistent performances have shown that I'm capable.
"It if is at the age of 33, then so be it because it shows that I'm doing the right things off the field and doing the extras to maintain that high level.
"If that call-up doesn't come because of the age, then there is nothing I can do about that.
"The only thing I can do is make sure that my performances are at a good enough level to be considered.
"It is obviously a dream of mine to play for the national team, so if that call came, I will be humbled and over the moon.
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"In the same sense, I cannot control those things and can only control what I do on the field, which is playing for Stellenbosch.
"If that puts my name in the hat, then so be it and I will be grateful.
"I just need to keep the mentality of knocking on the door," says Stephens.