A promising SuperSport United youngster revealed why he was inspired by veteran striker, Bernard Parker as a child.
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What's the story?
SuperSport United baller Shandre Campbell opened up in a recent interview with GOAL South Africa about Bernard Parker's influence in his own career.
The Matsatsantsa starlet mentioned that he'd be left inspired whenever interacting with Parker as a child, with Campbell stated that his parents were friends with the former Glamour Boy.
Read: Mokotjo's Long Journey With D'General FC
Let's take a closer look at what Shandre had to say...
Shandre Campbell on Bernard Parker
One of Matsatsantsa's most talented youngsters, Shandre Campbell, has enjoyed a solid 2023/24 campaign under Gavin Hunt this season, managing five goals and as many assists in all competitions.
The 18-year-old's eye-catching displays has seen make 28 appearances for the Tshwane outfit, with his agent Mike Makaab revealing that the mercurial winger is subject to interest from clubs overseas.
Campbell chatted to Goal about being inspired by Bernard Parker from a young age and the influence the 38-year-old has had on his career so far.
"You know, as coloureds, we are [a] small [community] especially in South Africa you know — not many of us make it to professional [football]. So, when we do make it professional, you want to also inspire our younger fellow coloureds to also try and be great. He [Parker] inspired me you know, even Benni McCarthy, he's also up there.
"They inspired me not only because of their race but also the type of players they are. I just feel like Bernard Parker, who used to be close to my father, so I always used to go to his house and see the cars, trophies and it used to motivate me.
"That's why every match I try my hardest to me Man of the Match or get something out of it like a goal and assist because I know, one day, I can speak about it and show that with hard work, you don't necessarily only need talent but hard work is most that you need, because without hard work talent is nothing," says Campbell, who mentioned that Parker didn't have to say much to motivate him.
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Watch below:
@goalcomsa Shandre Campbell recognises Bernard Parker's influence in his own career. ?????? #GSAVideo #GOALZAPLV #sportsontiktkok #knowafrica #AfricanFootball #supersportunitedfc #shandrecampbell #dstvpremiership #dstvpremier ? original sound - GOAL South Africa
Parker responded well to Shandre's comments by writing on Instagram: "I'm super proud of you @shandrecampbell21 and extremely happy of how far you've come.
"Time flies, [it] feels like yesterday when we started this journey. Kudos to your parents for trusting the process and the great love and support they been giving. Credit to your development coaches aswell, the journey continues."
"Die Hond" has enjoyed a successful career both locally and overseas, having played for FC Twente in the Netherlands and Red Star Belgrade in Serbia before winning two league titles with the Glamour Boys and racking up 72 caps (23 goals) for Bafana Bafana — Campbell will do well to follow in Parker's career footsteps.
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