Richards Bay co-coach Ronnie Gabriel says bringing back Sanele Barns was a no-brainer, as the midfielder is already familiar with the club’s culture and demands.
The Natal Rich Boyz secured Barns’ return on loan from Stellenbosch FC during the January transfer window, with the deal running until the end of the season. The move comes a year after Barns left the KwaZulu-Natal outfit ahead of the start of last season.
Barns previously departed the club after playing a pivotal role in helping Richards Bay avoid relegation through the PSL promotion and relegation play-offs in the 2023/24 season.
With the experienced midfielder back in the squad, Gabriel says the club is counting on Barns’ leadership and experience as they once again aim for a top-eight finish in the Betway Premiership.
“We are bringing him back knowing that he had a fantastic stint with us and contributed immensely to the success of the team,” said Gabriel, who holds a CAF A Licence.
“He went through the rigours of the team, he knows exactly what the team is about, and he understands the culture.
“Bringing him back was absolutely a no-brainer. We are ecstatic to have him back at the club. We know he will use his experience to lead the youngsters, guide them, and we expect good things from him.
“He has looked very good in training over the last two weeks. He is showing positive signs, and now it needs to translate into matches.
“He understands the role he needs to play and the responsibilities that come with it.”
Barns made his return from the bench as Richards Bay drew 2–2 with Golden Arrows in an entertaining Betway Premiership encounter at the Umhlathuze Sports Ground on Friday.
The KwaZulu-Natal club will again rely on Barns’ experience when they travel to face Siwelele in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 at Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday.
The two sides met recently in Richards Bay, with the league match ending in a 1–1 draw last month.
Gabriel is hoping to replicate the club’s recent cup success after Richards Bay reached the Carling Knockout semi-finals earlier this season, where they were eliminated by eventual champions Orlando Pirates.
“We are taking the Nedbank Cup very seriously,” Gabriel added.
“We want to progress to the next round, go deeper into the competition and do well in this cup. That is our mindset for the Nedbank Cup.”
