X-factor talents ready to take the PSL by storm

Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs have continued giving DStv Diski Challenge youngsters a fair chance in the elite league.

Some players have grabbed that opportunity with both hands, becoming critical members of their respective clubs, and even representing South African national teams at different levels.

With the current Diski Challenge season almost reaching its halfway mark, we have witnessed numerous talents who promise to be the future of Bafana Bafana.

Check out who we are tipping to be the players to watch in the near future, if there is no cruel twist of fate.

Danyaal Daya - TS Galaxy

Danya's progress this year showed that Galaxy first team coach Sead Ramovic is never afraid to throw young gems in at the deep end, so expect the winger/striker to feature prominently.

His ability to play out wide or as a striker has proven invaluable for The Rockets in the Diski Challenge. An eye-catching cameo in the Premiership provided a little taster of what to expect from the pacey and skilful player.

Siyanda Nyanga – Mamelodi Sundowns

If it were not for a cruel twist of fate, Nyanga could have been among the youngsters doing the most in the PSL, along with the likes of Stellenbosch FC's Antonio Van Wyk and Aphelele Teto of TS Galaxy.

The midfielder was loaned to Pretoria Callies at the beginning of last season. However, he was not given a chance as the team was fighting relegation. This season, he returned to Sundowns reserves to make up for the lost time. His return has played a significant role at Sundowns. His poise, technique and temperament have been vital.

Leonardo Rooi - Sekhukhune United

The youngster may be unproven, but he has this languid, unruffled aura that suggests Babina Noko may have finally found their defensive commander.

The 20-year-old has been dictatorial against their rivals this season in the berth at the heart of Sekhukhune's defence.

He has scored two goals so far, with a couple of assists and winning man of the match accolades.

Sbusiso Nkosi - Marumo Gallants

His team might not have done well in the Diski Challenge in the past two seasons, but Nkosi has proved to be the real deal.

Gallants do not routinely create an abundance of chances, but from the few they create, Nkosi has gratefully gobbled them up to be among early pace setters for the Golden Boot Accolade this season with seven goals to his name.

Furthermore, on rare occasions when Marumo are not so gallant and struggle to create, the promising lad has had the brute force to bludgeon defences wide open.

Ashley Nel - Cape Town City FC

Fast becoming a cult hero for The Citizens, Nel could be set for a sensational season in the Diski Challenge if his prior World Cup form was anything to go by.

Nel showed signs of being a prolific striker from the first match of the season. So far, he has not disappointed as he keeps improving each game. He has contributed massively to City's good form, seeing them leading the league after 10 games.