Devin Titus has paid tribute to coach Steve Barker and his teammates ahead of making his 50th career appearance for Stellenbosch FC.

Titus is in line to make his 50th appearance for Stellenbosch FC when the Maroons takes on Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday, and will become the fifth-youngest player in the club’s history to reach the milestone should he take to the pitch.

The 22-year-old was quick to give credit to his coaches and teammates for the achievement, paying special tribute to coach Steve Barker for the faith that he has placed in him throughout his burgeoning career.

“It’s a huge achievement and honour for me as a young player to have been trusted to play 50 games for the club already,” Titus said.

“A few years ago I would have never expected it because I felt like there were other players who were better than me in the positions that I play in, but coach Steve has trusted me and always made me feel like an important player.

Barker: Devin Titus has been a revelation for Stellenbosch FC

Asked about what sets him apart from some of the other young players who he had grown up alongside, the energetic forward put his achievements down to hard work and an unwavering desire to attain success.

“My desire to work hard on and off the ball and my desire to win has been a big factor,” he adds.

“In everything I do, I want to win, and I work hard to get there. That is a philosophy that my family has also instilled in me, but the players around me have also helped me to grow and without them and the coach, I wouldn’t have reached this milestone.

“Reaching 50 games means something special to me, and hopefully it means other young players will see that you’re never too young to play and that if you get your opportunity, you should take it and never look back.”