Rejuvenated midfielder Jayden Adams is eyeing both CAF Champions League glory and a spot in Hugo Broos's World Cup squad. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
A rejuvenated Jayden Adams is enjoying the rewards of pushing himself to reclaim his place among Mamelodi Sundowns’ leading performers this season, with his return to form coming at a crucial time as the club chases both the league title and the Caf Champions League crown.
After an encouraging start to life in the famous colours of Sundowns following his move from Stellenbosch FC earlier in the campaign, Adams endured a short spell on the sidelines that temporarily halted his momentum.
However, the 24-year-old midfielder has bounced back strongly and has emerged as one of the standout figures in the Brazilians’ renewed push for silverware.
Adams missed out on selection for the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), but his timely resurgence has ensured that his international ambitions remain alive.
The midfielder received further encouragement after being included in the preliminary squad named by Hugo Broos for the upcoming international friendlies against Panama later this month.
Reflecting on his improved form – and the bold hairstyle that has accompanied it – Adams credited hard work and self-reflection during the international break.
“It is just the hard work and the international Fifa break after AFCON. I reflected on myself and pushed myself, and when I came back I just gave my all,” Adams said. “The coach gave me the opportunity to start and I took it with both hands.”
The midfielder jokingly referred to his fresh look as a sign that he is now a “Grootman” – a grown man – as he continues to mature both on and off the pitch. With the Fifa World Cup set to kick off in June, Adams admitted that making the final squad would be a dream opportunity to showcase his abilities on the global stage.
“It would mean a lot to me and my family. I just want to make my family proud and showcase my talent on the big stage. If I get chosen, I will do my best,” he said.
This season is shaping up to be one of the most important in Sundowns’ history. While the club continues to battle rivals Orlando Pirates in the league race, they are also determined to secure their second Champions League title.
Despite a demanding schedule across domestic and continental competitions, Adams believes the team has managed to overcome the slow start they experienced earlier in the season.
“At Sundowns you play every three days or so, but unfortunately I am suspended so I can rest, but the job and focus goes on,” he explained.
“The Champions League is what we want as a team. Last year we failed in the final. This season we started a bit sloppy, but as we got into it the performances have been quite good and we have managed to win games.”
Sundowns’ next league outing against Marumo Gallants will be followed by the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Stade Malien on Sunday. Although the Brazilians hold a comfortable 3–0 advantage from the first leg, Adams expects a far more competitive contest in the return fixture.
“I will not say they are easy and I will not underestimate them because we must still go there,” he said.
“They are a good team and they will press us, so we will speak after the second leg. It was not that difficult in the first leg and we know the qualities we have.”
* Obakeng Meletse is Independent Media’s multi-sport writer. For fresh video content, follow our YouTube channel The Clutch