Vonk returns to Ajax Cape Town

By Pieter Stroink van Eizenga
BBC Sport, The Netherlands

Vonk retired from international football four years ago

South African goalkeeper Hans Vonk has returned to Ajax Cape Town to increase his chances of being selected for the Bafana Bafana 2010 World Cup squad.

Dutch side SC Heerenveen have allowed him to terminate his contract so that he can play at Ajax Cape Town and also be reunited with his family.

"It gives me the chance to have a normal family life again, and an opportunity to draw attention from Bafana Bafana head coach Joel Santana for a place in the national team," Vonk told BBC Sport.

Vonk, now 38 years old, retired from international football in 2005 after winning 43 caps for South Africa, including appearances at the 1998 and 2002 World Cup finals.

He was the national team goalkeepers' coach for 18 months, until Santana took charge of the side.

Vonk has ruled out regaining a place in the technical team, but still hopes that he can play at the 2010 finals.

"That's my wish, there's a small chance for me to get back in the team as a goalkeeper, but I don't think I can make a comeback as goalkeepers' coach."

"I need to play regularly in a good team in a good league."

"I'm being reunited with Muhsin Ertugral, whom I already knew from my first period at Ajax Cape Town in 2006 and 2007.

"He was eager to sign me, so I think it is very much possible for me to become the first goalkeeper for the Urban Warriors."

In preparation for the new season, Ajax Cape Town are playing in Holland against several Dutch clubs, including Vonk's former club Ajax Amsterdam.