Former Bafana Bafana head coach Clive Barker is recovering after suffering an anuerysm, his family was informed on Thursday.
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Barker, now 78, hopes to return home.
The man who led Bafana Bafana to the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996, and who qualified for the 1998 FIFA World Cup is currently undergoing rehabilitation.
“On behalf of the family, we would like to inform you of the well-being of our beloved former Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker,” read a statement from Cosafa, issued on behalf of the Barker family.
“Clive recently had surgery to restore normal flow through the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, after suffering an aneurysm.
“He is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Step Down Facility and hopes to return home soon. Clive is upbeat and positive about his journey to recovery, saying: “It feels like I’m in one of those pre-season sessions that the players have to go through when I’m a coach.”
“The Barker family would like to express their sincere thanks to the doctors and health professionals at St Augustine’s and Entabeni hospitals, who have worked tirelessly in Clive’s care.
Very moving
“We are deeply moved by the prayers and support that our colleagues, players, friends and fans have given us.
“We recognize that there is a public interest in Clive’s welfare, but ask for the family’s privacy at this time.
“The family will update their health status through a press statement at a later stage.”