Mduduzi Shabalala remains one of Kaizer Chiefs’ most talked-about players this season.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder continues to get himself into promising positions, yet the conversation often circles back to one theme, the chances that have not been converted.
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THE PLAY BEFORE THE MISSED GOAL ATTEMPTS
Club legend Itumeleng Khune believes Shabalala has shown maturity in his movement and awareness. Khune said the ability to arrive in those areas is not accidental.
While some supporters have grown frustrated, Kaizer Chiefs legend Khune has called for perspective and patience.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday at a club and sponsorship event, the former captain reminded fans that no player takes to the field intending to let the team down.
“The supporters must continue to rally behind the players because there is no player who goes on the field to make mistakes or to cost the team,” Khune said.
“But Mdu Shabalala has done tremendously well for himself and the club. He has been the one Kaizer Chiefs player who has been knocking on that Bafana Bafana door, and the supporters must keep being patient with him.”
Khune highlighted Shabalala’s courage to keep demanding the ball and trying to make things happen, even under pressure. For him, that mindset is crucial at a club of Chiefs’ size.
MEMORIES OF A FORMER KAIZER CHIEFS FORWARD
“He reminds me of Kingston Nkatha’s situation, where, as a captain, I had to intervene and calm the fans down,” Khune continued.
“We need that kind of leadership in today’s generation. They need to come together as players and fight for each other. Mdu is making good runs, he is creating chances, he finds himself in good scoring positions.
The Kaizer Chiefs icon concluded that Shabalala must not drop the ball. He should continue fighting for the club, as he has been performing very well.