Former Burnley manager Vincent Kompany – who has since joined Bayern Munich, saw potential in South Africa international Lyle Foster, and the Belgian did not hesitate to bring him on board to the then promotion-seeking Clarets.
The versatile forward joined the English team from KVC Westerlo on January 25 for an undisclosed fee, initially signing a four-and-a-half-year deal which was later extended in October, meaning the player is tied at Turf Moor until the summer of 2018.
Burnley's campaign in the Premier League did not go as planned; they struggled to keep their status but things did not work out as planned by the Manchester City legend. The Clarets were eventually relegated back to the championship.
In his Premier League debut, Foster – who played 24 top-tier matches in a campaign hampered by injuries and mental illness, scored five goals and provided three assists. But it was his style of play that wowed the fans.
What next for Foster? Will Kompany make the Bafana star a Bavarian?
With all due respect, Foster's undeniable quality is too much for a team plying trade in the Championship.
There have been rumours and gossip that Kompany is contemplating signing the South African in his bid to shape Bayern Munich who ended the 2023/24 season empty-handed despite having arguably the best players in the Bundesliga.
Having featured for French Ligue 1 side Monaco, Portuguese top-tier outfit Vitoria de Guimaraes, and other top teams like Cercle Brugge, it is obvious Foster can deliver if given a chance despite being just 23.
Should Foster ditch the Clarets for a better team? – Palacios urges the striker to take his time
Former Orlando Pirates coach Augusto Palacios, who also coached the player in the Bucs Academy, believes Foster is about to make an important decision that needs careful consideration.
“It is he who needs to decide this; he needs to decide with the club; I don’t think he needs to be in a hurry; that’s my advice to him,” Palacios told Far Post.
“Remember, this is the club that opened doors for him. He got the support when he was with Burnley; he got all the support [during a mental breakdown]. But I think as a professional player he will be able to play in the English Championship, and that will depend on the decision.
“He signed a long contract with Burnley last year, I think four years. So, if there’s an opportunity, the best way to go will be to approach the club. Sometimes, agents make the decision to move the player from club to club,” the tactician concluded.
