Cape Town - Lamontville Golden Arrows left back Thembela Sikhakhane believes the newly-promoted side have what it takes to hold their own in the next season's Premiership.
The 22-year-old defender was one of Abafana Bes'thende's key players last term as they eventually earned their place back in the top-flight as National First Division champions.
Having joined Arrows in the 2012/13 season from ABC Motsepe League side Gqikazi All Stars, Sikhakhane is one of the few players retained by the team following their relegation in 2013/14, and he now feels vindicated by that decision as they prepare to return to the Premiership.
"After losing a number of our key players like Thanduyise Khuboni, Mzuvukile Tom, Siyanda Zwane, Philani Shange and others, no one gave us a chance to make an impact in the NFD, let alone contending promotion back to the Premiership," he told Football411.
"However, with proper planning, targets we had set, as well as commitment from the players' side, we managed to make a quick return to Premiership. With the team we have and some newly-signed players, I believe we have what it takes to compete in the Premiership next season.
"We have a balanced team comprised of youngsters with hunger to make their names in the top-flight, while we also have some experienced players like Mabhudi Khenyeza, Thabang Rooi and Omar Hendricks."