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Cape Town - Former Bafana Bafana defender Matthew Booth has urged Rivaldo Coetzee to maintain his desire of landing an overseas deal after signing for African Champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Coetzee, who is widely regarded as one of the most promising defensive prospects from South Africa in recent years, was poised to join Celtic last month - but the move fell through after the 20-year-old failed his medical.
However, after being assessed by the Brazilians' medical team - the alleged broken bone in his right foot was better than first feared and a reported league record R12-million deal saw Mario Booysen head in the opposite direction as the deal was finalised with Ajax Cape Town.
And Booth who plied his trade in Russia before returning to play for both Masandawana and the Urban Warriors in the latter stages of his career, identified the qualities that will see him succeed in the upper echelons of European football.
"It was very sad what happened because I would have liked for him to go abroad. I hope in future Downs will not stand in his way when an offer from overseas comes," he told the SowetanLIVE website.
"He is an exceptional talent. I see him playing in the top leagues in Europe. He is comfortable on the ball and is able to pass the ball from the back, which is what is taught at Ajax."
