Barker Explains De Reuck Captaincy

Simba Defender Rushine De Reuck. Photo: Facebook/Simba SC Tanzania

Simba SC coach Steve Barker has revealed the reasons as to why Rushine De Reuck has been taking over as captain.

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De Reuck has been a mainstay in Simba’s backline since his move to the Tanzanian giants from Mamelodi Sundowns.

This season has been a breakout one for the 30-year-old, despite inconsistent results and coaching instability this season.

Simba started the season under Fadlu Davids, who departed for Raja Club Athletic, before Dimitar Pantev took charge for just 74 days before Barker took charge.

The former Stellenbosch FC coach has shown faith in his compatriot to lead the side, with Simba’s long-standing captain Shomari Kapombe handing the armband to De Reuck, despite still being in the side.

“It’s just an internal decision between Kapombe and Rushine,” Barker revealed.

“Kapombe is still the captain of the team, but he wanted Rushine to be captain for a couple of games. He remains the captain of the club, but that selfless gesture shows the unity we have,” he added.

De Reuck has led the team in the past two games against Dodoma Jiji and the Kariakoo Derby against Yanga SC, while he also scored from the spot in a recent win over Tanzania Prisons.

His performances have resulted in three goals scored for the season, while he has also scooped two Man of the Match awards.

Since taking charge in December, Barker has also reinvigorated Simba’s season. After a slow start, he won four games on the bounce before a draw to Yanga in the derby, and he has reserved plenty of praise for his men.

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“I am incredibly proud of how the squad has responded,” said Barker.

“I made a promise to the management and the fans to restore a team defined by commitment and intensity. I told the players: ‘Play for the badge on the front of the shirt, and the fans will remember the name on the back,’” he concluded.

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