New Mamelodi Sundowns defender Fawaaz Basadien has wasted no time in outlining his ambitions after making his debut for the club.
The Bafana Bafana left-back, who moved to the Brazilians during the current transfer window, has his sights set on a regular starting position.
Basadien made his first appearance for the Tshwane giants in their commanding 4-0 MTN8 quarterfinal win over Richards Bay FC on Sunday evening.
The match, played at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium, saw the left-back make a 13-minute cameo in the second half, though he was deployed out of his natural position at right-back after replacing Zuko Mdunyelwa.
This marked his reunion with former teammates Jayden Adams and Iqraam Rayners, who both joined Sundowns last season.
‘THE TARGET HERE IS TO PLAY REGULARLY’
In a statement to the club’s media department, Basadien was clear about his personal objectives. “For me, the target here is to play regularly, help the team obviously to achieve more,” he said.
“I want to win more trophies but my main thing is to just help the team. By helping the team, I mean maybe getting clean-sheets, trying to reach the team’s objectives and hopefully win titles as well.”
The 28-year-old acknowledged the fierce competition he faces, particularly at left-back, a position currently held by the experienced Aubrey Modiba. He will also have to contend with other talented players like Divine Lunga, Terrence Mashego, and Asekho Tiwani.
Basadien expressed his gratitude to the fans, who he affectionately calls the ‘Yellow Nation’, for the warm reception he received on his debut. “I was looking forward to playing in front of them. They made me feel welcomed,” he added.
“I just enjoy the honour to play for the team with such great supporters. I just wanna thank them for coming out, we appreciate it.”
Sundowns will kick off their Betway Premiership season this Saturday, August 9, with an away clash against Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 3 PM.
