Swallows FC defender Vuyo Mere has criticised PSL teams that reject players because they are over 30.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Platinum Stars right-back was offloaded by Bidvest Wits at the end of last season and ended up trying his luck at Highlands Park, where he was unsuccessful.
Speaking after his new team's 0-0 draw with Real Kings in Hammersdale last weekend, the 35-year-old sent a message to those who feel a player's time is up in football if they are playing in the GladAfrica Championship.
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"It hurts to be written off at times," he said.
"Now because you didn't get a team in the PSL people think you are dead. You are over 30 years and then it's like you are walking on crutches, you can't deliver anymore. You know, we can still do the job.
"For this league to get a platform on television, it goes both ways. It gives a platform to the young players to sell themselves and they are doing well."
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Mere makes reference to his 33-year-old captain at Swallows, Lebohang Mokoena, whom he believes can still deliver better than many in the Absa Premiership but got rejected because of his age.
"Cheeseboy has still got what it takes to play in the PSL. Look at his runs and touches. I'm proud of the guys that are being written off, we are not here to prove a point."
Swallows have signed a number of older players such as Mere, Mokoena and Virgil Vries. Former Bafana Bafana captain Aaron Mokoena has also been brought in as head of scouting.
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