Exclusive: Neil Tovey Believes That Carlos Alberto Parreira Is The Right Man For South Africa

Former South Africa captain Neil Tovey expects Carlos Alberto Parreira to have an immediate effect.

He told Goal.com, “In terms of an international coach coming to South Africa, Parreira is probably the best that was available. He’s coached the team before and no one is doubting his ability to do well.”

SuperSport United’s Gavin Hunt has been tipped to become an assistant to Parreira in a move that is likely to pave the way for him to take over the reins post-World Cup.

Tovey welcomed that decision but questioned whether the South African FA’s promise to replace Parreira with a local coach would actually become a reality.

“What I’m worried about is that the experience of the World Cup could be wasted if we don’t have the next man involved in some way,” he said.

“I think Gavin Hunt would be a good choice but there are plenty of other managers who are also capable of doing the job.”

As for his own ambitions to one day take over the country that he led to African Nations Cup glory as a player, Tovey believes he is not quite ready. However, he did offer his wealth of experience to Parreira in the build-up to next year’s competition.

“It’s every coach’s dream to be an international manager, but it’s something I see for the future,” he admitted.

“What I can do now is lend my assistance to the players because I know what it takes to play in a big tournament like the World Cup.”

Ed Aarons, Goal.com