Lee Langeveldt: Steve Barker's departure from Stellenbosch FC is a surprise and a huge loss for us as a team

Lee Langeveldt has described Steve Barker’s departure from Stellenbosch FC as a ‘big loss’.

Barker’s shock move from the Betway Premiership sides to Simba FC in Tanzania last week sent shockwaves across local football.

And his club players have been devastated. Goalkeeper Lee Langeveldt has described Barker’s departure as a surprise and also paid homage to the coach.

"It came as a big surprise for all of us. He was instrumental in the success of the club, he was the glue of Stellies. A big loss for us as a football club, he was really a good coach and I think his record at the club speaks for itself, what he has achieved with limited resources," Langeveldt told Soccerladuma website.

"What he has achieved in the last eight and half years was really special. He always used the word 'special', especially to the players. He would always say, 'You're a special group' and I think that's something that makes him unique, each and every player was important to him, not only the starting eleven but the whole team. I'm sure the club and all the players will miss him a lot."