Bradley Cross Once Impressed Legendary Clive Barker Before Earning Bafana Bafana Nod

Kaizer Chiefs’ left-back Bradley Cross has started his second season with the club strongly, making 13 appearances and establishing himself as a key figure in defence. His performances have earned him a place in Bafana Bafana’s preliminary squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, one of four Chiefs players included by coach Hugo Broos.

Cross’ journey to national recognition started long before he joined Chiefs. Tony Dias, who coached him at Mpumalanga Black Aces (now Jo’burg City) development, recalled how Cross impressed from a young age. Initially an offensive player, Cross was moved into defence early in his development, a decision that Dias says has shaped his all-round game.

Dias revealed that the late Clive Barker, South Africa’s 1996 AFCON-winning coach, was excited by Cross’ potential during visits to the development academy. Barker, serving as technical director at the time, frequently worked with the young players and personally coached groups that included Cross. “Bradley was amongst the group that was sent through Clive’s hands, and they all loved the experience,” Dias said.

The coach added that seeing former academy players succeed professionally and earn national recognition validates the club’s development philosophy. “It is always encouraging when our boys go on to play professional and then get to be considered for the national team. We can tell the boys that Bradley was also once just like them as a 13-year-old at the club,” Dias explained.

Cross’ rise reflects the value of structured youth development and careful positional training. From impressing Clive Barker as a teenager to earning a Bafana Bafana call-up, his journey serves as a blueprint for young players aspiring to make the leap to professional football.