Simba SC head coach Steve Barker has praised Rushine de Reuck as one of the best centre-backs he’s coached while also suggesting the player still has something to offer his national team.
The two are now working together at the Tanzanian side with the player having joined at the beginning of the season and the coach in December 2025 following the departure of another South African in Fadlu Davids.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns defender had initially signed a yearlong contract with Simba, but he’s impressed in his 12 league appearances scoring three goals and earned himself an extension.
As far as Bafana Bafana are concerned the last time the 30-year-old was with the squad was in September 2021 for the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
Barker spoke to a few journalists including iDiski Times Editor Rob Delport in an interview carried in edition 249 of the newspaper where said de Reuck was on the same level as his peers currently in the squad.
“For me, Rushine, looking at the Bafana centre-backs players I’ve worked with, Rushine is probably one of the best centre backs I’ve coached,” said Barker.
“For me, he’s on par with anyone. He’s been fit and playing, so a Rushine playing and fit is as good as any centre-back.
“I think it’s been good for him. He’s now extended his contract.”
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