The only problem we have is that we don't believe a young player can do it for his club or for the national team," Palacios said to KickOff.
Whenever a coach introduces a 16 or 17-year-old to the PSL, we rush to say he is not ready. A player can only be ready by playing regularly.
The question I have for South Africa is this: Do we believe in young players or not? (Some) 19-year-olds play UEFA football at Manchester United. The same goes for Barcelona.
"Lebohang Mokoena was a 16-year-old when he was promoted to Orlando Pirates. You cannot play in the PSL and not be ready for the national team," he said.
"We have one of the best leagues in the DDC. I would not say coach Broos made a mistake by starting him on the bench. No, the coach sets the starting lineup," he said.
"Mofokeng is a good player on a good platform. He performs well and has a good future. He must stay confident as he continues to play for the Pirates and the national team."
In bringing hope to all the young players who dream of playing for their country, he must continue to fight for his position at Pirates and for his place in the national team.
The future looks bright for him, but he must never rest. If he is a regular at Pirates now, he must be ready to compete at the national level.
"He came at a good time, he penetrated, he was never scared, and he will grow. That game gave him a great opportunity."
