Percy Tau: What to expect in 2021-22

Almost three years after signing for Brighton & Hove Albion in July 2018, Percy Tau returned to the Seagulls in January with little or no success.

This was understandable, however, as Graham Potter’s side battled for Premier League survival in 2020-21.

The Bafana Bafana star could make only three league appearances after returning to the Amex but featured in three of Brighton’s FA Cup games before a Fifth Round elimination by eventual winners Leicester City. Notably, he started two of the fixtures.

In the first half of the season at Belgian giants Anderlecht, the 27-year-old featured in 14 domestic games from a possible 19, in which he started 12 times.

A quartet of those encounters were missed through injury, thus putting a measure of context and highlighting how important he was to Vincent Kompany’s team—somewhat evidenced by four goals, a sole assist and seven big chances created.

Tau’s long-term future appears uncertain and Al Ahly have registered an interest in the South African, who could be reunited with Pitso Mosimane if a deal is agreed.

“I have a very good relationship with Percy,” the decorated tactician told Soccer Laduma, "and if he is available, why not? Also, does he want to come back to Africa?

Percy Tau must ABSOLUTELY resist the temptation of a reunion with Pitso Mosimane at @AlAhlyEnglish and stick it out with @OfficialBHAFC

Here's why: https://t.co/ct677gd25L#BHAFC pic.twitter.com/ubdtoDe7nD

— Ed Dove (@EddyDove) August 11, 2021

“Can we afford the transfer fee Brighton would demand? And also, would we satisfy his personal terms?  If all those boxes can be ticked, then I will have a huge interest on this one.”

Despite temptations to be reunited with Mosimane, there’s a desire to see the attacker thrive and subsequently break into the Seagulls side.

Having had a pre-season — he featured for 45 minutes in the goalless encounter against Rangers and scored in the 3-1 win at Luton Town — a more involved role in Potter’s side will be ideal.

However, on a personal note, a peripheral role or lack of game time promises from the Albion manager could see him depart the club.

From the club’s perspective, top flight relegation will be agonising.

After missing out completely from the team’s friendly defeat by Getafe, the Albion boss revealed the reason for the player’s absence.

“He was out for personal reasons. We will see how the weekend goes and go from there on Tuesday,” said Potter as per Brighton and Hove Independent.

Owing to the intensified reports that point to a departure, South Africa great Lucas Radebe has urged the SA star to battle for a place at the Amex.

“I don’t think Percy must leave. I see no point in returning to Belgium because he’s been there before,” the Leeds United icon told Sowetan Live. “He’s talented enough to play at Brighton. He must fight harder...show them he can do it. That goal [against Luton] will build his confidence.

“He must never look back. This season must be the season he shows the world that he’s a great player.”

Unfortunately, the former Mamelodi Sundowns player won’t be involved as South Africa failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Even though Bafana Bafana finished on 10 points — which could have been enough to progress in 10 of the 12 groups in qualifying — they ended third behind Ghana (13) and Sudan (12) in Group C.

With the lack of transfer activity — signing of Zambia midfielder Enock Mwepu aside — and injuries, Potter could convince Tau to remain in England for Brighton’s fifth year in the Premier League since gaining promotion in 2017.

The forward’s amazing solo goal against Luton — where he ran with the ball from around the halfway line, beat two defenders (leaving Gabriel Osho sprawling on the turf), before sending a right-footed effort into the bottom left corner — was unreservedly impressive and his strong performance subsequently was striking.

Despite the reports of an exit, we are backing the South Africa attacker to stay this season…or maybe we’re just hoping against hope given the 27-year-old’s undoubted quality.