Vries enjoying life at Amakhosi

REHOBOTH, 24 JUL – Former Brave Warriors and Baroka goalkeeper, Virgil Vries said he is enjoying life at his new South African club, Kaizer Chiefs, also known as the Phefeni Glamour Boys after signing a three-year deal last month.
Vries joined Kaizer Chiefs as a replacement for Brilliant Khuzwayo, who recently joined Orlando Pirates after having spent years as a deputy to number one goalkeeper, Itumeleng Khune.
Speaking to Nampa from the neighbouring country on Monday, VV as he is also known said life has been great at the Naturena-based outfit.
“Things are very professional here at Chiefs and it was easy to join the club as I wanted to grow in my career and get better. It can only happen when you are rubbing shoulders with the best, because that’s where you bring out the best of yourself,” Vries said.
He said bearing in mind that getting the number one jersey from the incumbent, Khune, will not be easy he aims to work hard.
“My aim is to work hard, be smarter and grab the opportunity if it arises. It won’t be easy and if it is too easy then it won’t last.”
He said being patient and learning from the best will help him stay focused.
“I just have to push myself and get as much as I can from the top-class goalkeeper coaches. If I concentrate on the negatives, then I will not be able to handle the pressure as it will put doubt in my mind and bring upon failure,” Vries added.
Asked about his prospects of playing for Namibia again, he said it is every player’s dream to represent their country.
“It is always a privilege and honour to don national team colours and when called upon, I will always be ready to represent my country with pride,” he said.
In giving advice, Vries said upcoming footballers, especially from less privileged backgrounds should work hard and believe in their abilities.
“Always work hard, ignore the negatives and build on constructive criticism. Dreams come true even though it might take longer for some and for others it might happen instantly.”
Vries started his footballing career in the ||Kharas Second Division with Luton Football Club, before joining erstwhile Namibia Premier League (NPL) outfit Fedics United.
After Fedics were relegated from the NPL, he was snapped up by Eleven Arrows before crossing the Orange River to play for Golden Arrows in South Africa and Carrara Kicks in the South African National First Division.
After being released by Arrows, he came back to Namibia and joined Orlando Pirates and was signed by another South African club Maritzburg United, before joining Baroka.
(NAMPA)