Aug 10
16
Steyn Pays To Play For Boks
France-based Springbok Francois Steyn has broken his silence and rejected suggestions that he no longer wants to play for his country.
Poor communication between the Steyn’s club, Racing Metro, and the South African camp prompted Springbok coach Peter de Villiers to question the 23-year-old’s motivation to play in the green and gold.
Steyn absolutely disagrees. He has this to say to the Afrikaans newspaper Rapport.
“My heart is in it to play for the Springboks and I would die on the field to play for the Springboks, I want to play for the Springboks in next year’s World Cup and I will do anything I have to do to achieve it.”
Steyn said it came as huge surprise to be added to the Tri-Nations squad because he had been told he would only be considered for the end-of year tour to Britain and Ireland.
“I called De Villiers and left a message on his cellphone. I have assured him that I am still eager to play for the Boks.
“Everyone who knows me knows I give everything for the team that I play for.”
Steyn insisted that his injury was legitimate and that he concerns of his club should be respected.
“Racing Metro pay my salary and treated me well. I do not have not a Bok contract, I have not been released by Metro Racing and I cannot just walk. I have a contract with them and it should be respected. Despite everything, I’ll be the first one on the plane when I am allowed to go to South Africa and play for the Boks. I will do anything to play for South Africa.”
Steyn went on to say that he felt he had unfairly been portrayed as being difficult explaining that he had even used his own funds to travel to represent the Springboks against Wales even when SARU had not provided the necessary paperwork to secure his release.
Racing Head coach Pierre Berbizier told Steyn on his return that he would not prevent him from playing for his country but that in future all the correct paperwork had to be in place.
“Peter gave the assurance that he will travel to France and sort things out with my club, He has not been to the club and I have not spoken to him since the Wales test.”
