Vincent Kompany provides big update on Lyle Foster

Burnley FC coach Vincent Kompany has provided a big update on Bafana Bafana star Lyle Foster’s recovery from depression. The former Orlando Pirates forward took a break from football to concentrate on his recovery from the mental health illness. The 23-year-old made his last appearance from the emotionally and physically demanding Premier League football in October 2023. The last game for the South African in the Clarets’ shirt was against Brentford.

ALSO READ: Bafana star Foster gets big push in battle against depression

Why Foster took a break from football

Foster’s break from football came at a time he was enjoying good form. He had emerged as Burnley’s leading scorer on all fronts. The Bafana forward seemed to be the source of hope for the Premier League returnees. Burnley’s return to the Premier League has not been rosy. The Clarets have been fighting relegation from day one. Kompany and his men return to the battlefront on December 9 2023 when Burnley travel to face Brighton and Hove Albion.

ALSO READ: Prayers for Bafana Bafana striker Lyle Foster following Burnley’s statement

What is the latest update on Foster?

Ahead of the Premier League match against Brighton, Kompany provided an update on Foster. Burnley Express newspaper of England reports that Kompany did not give specifics on the return to action of the Johannesburg-born striker. However, the Manchester City legend did hint on something good happening for Foster.

 “Lyle is making good progress,” Burnley Express quotes Kompany as saying. “You talk about two players at this level [Foster and Koleosho] where every detail and all the margins count.”

ALSO READ: Former Orlando Pirates coach says Lyle Foster is in good hands

What Kompany said about the Bafana player

Kompany added: “It could be better, but we will recover both players and when both players are ready to go again, we will benefit from them being Burnley players.” The Clarets manager refused to give a specific time-frame for Foster’s return to action. “I just know that he is getting good care and he’s in a better place than he was four weeks ago now,” Kompany added. “Let’s put it this way, the best I can say is that I’m hopeful it won’t be too long before he’s able to come and help us again.”

ALSO READ: No Lyle Foster but Bradley Cross and Oswin Appollis make Bafana cut

The former Pirates star getting massive support

The former Pirates player recently received massive support from Burnley FC chairman Alan Pace. The Clarets boss participated in a #MileForLyle movement campaign to encourage Foster to soldier on. Pace took his turn by embarking on a walk last month at part of the campaign supporting the Mzansi star. The Burnley chairman further suggested ways which can help people cope with mental health issues. Pace cited being in company of loved ones as among the solutions to better mental health. Pace then sent a direct message to the South African footballer, saying: “Lyle, we love you, we miss you and we can’t wait to have you back with us. See you soon.”

Burnley supporter John Robertson initiated the campaign for Foster. The leading Burnley supporter urged fellow fans to upload their pictures onto social media platforms such as x.com and Facebook under the hashtag #MileForLyle. The Johannesburg-born forward signed for Burnley last season when they were campaigning in the English Championship. The Clarets earned promotion to the Premier League.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY PETER KANJERE