Kaizerchiefs.com caught up with U-19 captain, Lucky “Sheriff” Baloyi just before the team boarded for the flight to Zurich, Switzerland. The no nonsense utility player spoke about his hopes in Europe and about being promoted to the senior team.

Kaizerchiefs.com: Thank you for your time. What does this opportunity to play three tournaments in three countries (Switzerland, Holland and Germany) mean to you and the team?

Lucky Baloyi: First of all I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who made it possible for us to participate in these tournaments in Europe. It is a great opportunity for us as players and we are looking forward to the challenge. I must quickly add that we are not going on a holiday in Europe but to compete as a team. It is an opportunity also for those who will not be able to come to South Africa for the World Cup to see what we can offer on the field.

Kaizerchiefs.com: For you it is for the first time to go overseas…

Lucky Baloyi: Yes and I am very excited that I am there leading a bunch of committed players who want to make a name for themselves in the senior team in future. We are going to Europe not only to represent the Club but the country as well.

Kaizerchiefs.com: The Executive Chairman, Mr. Kaizer Motaung addressed the team last Friday during the farewell…

Lucky Baloyi: It was very nice for the Club to organize a sending off for us to show their support. The Chairman told us that it is important that we grab the opportunity to go overseas as some of the players during their playing days never had an opportunity to go overseas. We are grateful to the Chairman who has opened this door for us.

Kaizerchiefs.com: You going to the tournament having spent some time with the first team. How is that experience going to help you in Europe?

Lucky Baloyi: I have learnt a lot during my time in the first team and I am excited that I will be joining the team for the preseason next month. My game has developed a lot and one can see that even when I play for the Development team that there is a difference.

I am also grateful to have had an opportunity to play for the national U-20 team and I was part of the team that beat Brazil counterparts by 3-2 in Cape Town. I am going to continue working hard and this tournament gives not only me but all the guys an opportunity to test themselves against some of the best upcoming players Europe and South America has to offer.

Kaizerchiefs.com: How did you join Kaizer Chiefs Development?

Lucky Baloyi: I came here for trials back in 2005 from Mokopane in Polokwane. I impressed the U-15 coaching staff and went on to play in the U-17 and the U-19 and now I am looking forward to fighting for my place in the senior team next season. I still have age on my side and will continue learning from the older guys in the team.

Kaizerchiefs.com: U-17 Coach, Doctor Khumalo and U-19 Coach, Fani Madida used you in the holding role in the middle of the park but you can also play as a centre back. Where do you feel comfortable?

Lucky Baloyi: I am prepared to play wherever the coaches feel that I can do the business but for me I prefer playing in the midfield.

Kaizerchiefs.com: Captain, what message do you have for the Kaizer Chiefs faithful?

Lucky Baloyi: One thing that I can promise the fans is that we are going to represent you well in Europe.