Keith Owen Groeneveld is a rare diamond which found himself in Europe at the tender age of four. Born in Kimberly, Groeneveld’s family relocated to Belgium where he began playing football

He began his football career at Royal Antwerp FC, where he played for seven years before joining KV Mechelen. After his two-year contract at the Belgium based side, the lengthy defender was invited to trial with Manchester United, Arsenal, Schalke 04 and Standard de Liege.

After impressing with all these top clubs, he chose to stay in Belgium and play for his current club Standard de Liege, where he believes he is getting the best experience at his age.

“I am happy to be here, it is always nice to come home. I do not have the greatest knowledge of South African football, but I have always wanted to represent my country because this is my country of birth. We have a bit more discipline and organization than the skill of South African players and we also tend to focus more on tactics, rather than the flare which I know South Africa to be associated with” says Groeneveld.

The young defender believes his experienced gained over the years played in Europe will bring something different and valuable to the Amajita set up.