Stellenbosch FC have completed the signing of Bafana Bafana midfielder Njabulo Blom on a season-long loan from Indonesian Super League side Borneo Samarinda.
The deal was concluded before Monday’s transfer deadline, with the 26-year-old having since arrived in Stellenbosch to join the Maroons for the remainder of the season.
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Blom, who has two Bafana Bafana caps to his name, said he was excited about beginning a new chapter with the club.
“I’m excited to be here, and to start this journey in a new environment,” Blom said.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge and building relationships with my new teammates. I will do my best to help the team and see what we can achieve together.”
Njabulo Blom targets return to his best
The midfielder said Stellenbosch’s reputation as a well-run club played a role in his decision to join.
“Stellenbosch is a professional and well-run club, and players who have played here in the past have enjoyed success, so I felt that it was a good environment for me to grow and to play competitive football again,” he added.
Njabulo Blom will also reunite with experienced coach Gavin Hunt, who he believes can help him rediscover his best form.
“I know coach Gavin [Hunt] demands a lot from his players and that will also help me improve and get back to my best.”
Blom brings both domestic and international experience to Stellenbosch.
He previously enjoyed two spells with Kaizer Chiefs, while he also spent time abroad in Major League Soccer with St. Louis City before moving to Indonesia.
The midfielder will wear the No 35 jersey for Stellenbosch this season.
Blom could face Kaizer Chiefs
There is the possibility of an immediate storyline for Blom, with Stellenbosch scheduled to face his former club Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership on Saturday, 17 October.
Njabulo Blom could therefore make his Stellenbosch debut against the club where he made his name in South African football.
His arrival gives Hunt another experienced option in midfield as Stellenbosch look to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the campaign.
For Blom, the loan move provides an opportunity to play regular competitive football again while working under Hunt at a club he believes can help him develop and return to his best.
