Brighton and Hove Albion manager Graham Potter has admitted that he is monitoring Percy Tau, who is on a season-long loan at Belgian outfit RSC Anderlecht.
Despite being in The Seagulls’ books for over two years, the South Africa international is yet to feature in the club’s colours, mostly due to difficulties in obtaining a work permit.
Percy Tau impresses Brighton manager
Now in his third loan spell in Belgium, the 26-year-old has displayed impressive form for both club and country, recently netting three goals in two matches for Bafana Bafana in the just-concluded international break.
Potter has noted his progress over the past few months.
“We have a loan manager, David Weir, who monitors that really, really well,” he said.
“Obviously [technical director] Dan [Ashworth] does as well, along with our scouts.
“I am aware that he (Tau) has been playing well, he’s been scoring goals and enjoying his football so that is good.”
Graham Potter
Long wait for Premier League debut
Tau’s contract with Brighton comes to an end in June 2021. There have been reports that the club could look to recall the player in January in the hopes that work permit regulations are relaxed under Brexit.
Should the move materialise, he will become the 14th South African player to feature in the Premier League, following in the footsteps of the likes of Lucas Radebe, Quinton Fortune and Benni McCarthy.
Speaking to Brighton’s official website recently, Tau said playing in the world’s most-watched football league would be a proud moment for him.
“People from my country are always looking out for players who compete in the big divisions across the world,” he said.
“We give hope to the next generation of players in South Africa. It helps them to have something to aim towards. I would be very proud if I could be one of those players.
“I am just grateful that Brighton were able to sign me from South Africa. I will always be proud of that moment and cherish them for giving me the opportunity to come to Europe.”
Percy Tau
Brighton are currently in the bottom half of the Premier League standings, having managed just two wins in their nine matches.
