Kaizer Chiefs teenager Kabelo Ngwesa has sent a strong message to the team's coaches and fans that he is ready for the first team.
The 19-year-old left-back, nicknamed 'Festival', got a taste of first-team football in the team's first friendly match of the tour, a 1-1 draw against Scottish giants Rangers. After playing 20 minutes, Ngwesa spoke about the experience, saying, >"I got to play 20 minutes in the first match and I got a sense of the difference in how they play compared to us, especially their physicality and endurance, which allowed them to finish stronger, so it is important that we earmark that as an area where we can improve," he admitted. Ngwesa also highlighted the importance of game management, saying, "Also, it's good to learn about game management, when to pass, the weight of the pass. Those seemingly small things can make a big difference in a match situation."
Ngwesa is in his second pre-season with the first-team squad, and he is determined to make the most of it. He expressed his gratitude to the coaches and fans, saying, >"This is my second pre-season with the first-team squad, and I am very happy and grateful to be here," he says, before offering some motivational advice to any youth player wanting to make it in the game, "I would say to any ambitious youngster coming through the development academy that if they just keep working hard, stay dedicated and show character by stepping up every time when it matters, it is possible to get to here. You can be an individual sometimes but always be a team player."
Another player on the radar is Wandile Duba, who is reportedly set to leave the club after a dramatic drop in his goal-scoring output and injury issues. Meanwhile, Ashley Du Preez is likely to stay, despite recent rumors.
Key Facts
- The 19-year-old left-back Kabelo Ngwesa has been training with Kaizer Chiefs' first team for the past two seasons.
- Ngwesa played 20 minutes in the team's first friendly match, a 1-1 draw against Rangers.
- Ngwesa has highlighted the importance of game management, including when to pass and the weight of the pass.
- Wandile Duba is reportedly set to leave the club after a drop in performance and injury issues.
- Ashley Du Preez is likely to stay with the club, despite recent rumors.
A Kaizer Chiefs spokesperson confirmed that the team is eager to bring up the youngsters to the first team, citing their potential and dedication.
In related news, Kaizer Chiefs has a rich history of producing talented players who have gone on to represent South Africa and even the English Premier League. Fans are eagerly waiting to see if Ngwesa will be the next big star to emerge from the team.
The team is set to face a tough schedule this season, with many big-name teams vying for top spot. With Ngwesa and other young players pushing for a spot in the first team, fans are in for a thrilling ride. And with the team's commitment to developing young players, there's no doubt that Kaizer Chiefs will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the South African Premier League.