Fanteni, who is expected to lead Ajax Cape Town’s attack in tonight’s  Premier Soccer League opener against SuperSport United, said scoring goals is his job and he wants to prove that he is still a contender for a place in the Bafana Bafana squad.

“I want to score 20 goals this season which I believe I can do, win a trophy and finish at least in the top-three in the league with my club,” he told CitiStriker.

Fanteni has been a largely forgotten figure since being dropped by Bafana Bafana after the Confederations Cup in 2009. But he said his sights are set on bouncing back into the limelight and winning back a place in the national team. His road to redemption will start at the Cape Town stadium where Ajax host SuperSport United.

“I’ve always believed in my ability as a player but it’s just that in the past season I’ve had my problem with injuries. If I can stay injury free I can do it.

“I missed the first week of pre-season but the tests were fine and I’m feeling sharp. I’m over my injuries now.”
Fanteni has had hip flexor problems.

With Gordon Igesund having taken over as national coach, Fanteni believes his chances of forcing a comeback are back. “I wasn’t lucky enough with the previous coach but with the new coach everyone stands an equal chance. If you do well you will get a chance, it doesn’t matter what you did in the past. Every South African can get to play.”

“I believe I have the quality to represent my country but I was just unfortunate with the previous coach.”

Fanteni was picked for one friendly last year against Kenya, coming on as a substitute to win his 21st cap. It was his only game in three years with Bafana Bafana.

Fanteni has also put to bed speculation over a possible move from Ajax.

“I still have a year left on my contract. My full focus is here.”

The 28-year-old expects tonight’s opener to be tight.

“I watched SuperSport a bit on TV last weekend and they have a very good squad, although they have lost a few players. They’ve signed Bevan Fransman, who is a very good player, and the defender from Maritzburg (Mor Diouf) as well. It won’t be easy for us but we are playing at home and we will be going all out to win the game.”

Last season Fanteni passed the 50-goal mark in the PSL – one of just a handful of strikers to reach that target.