An overseas-based Springbok and Lions’ Super Rugby hero has been linked with a return to Ellis Park following his release.
Andries Coetzee was one of two players released from Italian side Benetton on Monday and according to Rapport, the 32-year-old is expected to continue his career back home.
Coetzee, who earned all of his 13 caps for the Boks in 2017, played for the Lions in Super Rugby and in the Currie Cup.
He joined Benetton last season from Japanese side Kintetsu Liners, but made just nine appearances for the Italians in a season hampered by injury.
Coetzee and Italy international Luca Morisi were both granted an early release by the Treviso outfit.
“After a positive start to the year for me, unfortunately, I had to struggle with a knee injury that made it difficult for me to get back into shape,” Coetzee said in an official club statement.
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“For me and my family, it is very sad to leave Treviso because it is a lovely place to live and we are happy to have enjoyed every moment. We will always keep this city close to our hearts and hope to return someday.
“As for the team, I think we’ve had a good season and I think the team really has a lot of potential. To the fans, a huge thank you for making home games so special. When I look back on my season here at Benetton, I will always remember the voices of our fans screaming ‘Lions’.
“I wish the best to my fantastic teammates, and people I will be able to consider as friends for life.
“Thank you very much to the club and to all those who contributed to making this opportunity a reality, in particular, the general manager [Antonio] Pavanello and the team manager Ceccato who made me and my family feel at home.”
