The Kaizer Chiefs reserve team midfielder has been spotted travelling with the first team to Durban ahead of Saturday’s Betway Premiership clash against Chippa United at the Moses Mabhida Stadium at 15:00.
After training with the senior squad earlier this week, the highly-rated midfielder now appears increasingly poised to make his long-awaited first-team debut.
LATEST BOOST FOR KAIZER CHIEFS MIDFIELDER PHEKO PHAGO
The 21-year-old’s situation had attracted attention after reports suggested Sekhukhune United were interested in offering him a route into PSL football.
That came amid concerns among supporters after Kaizer Chiefs lost several talented development products in recent years, including Puso Dithejane, Omega Mdaka and Khulumani Ndamane.
While selection is never guaranteed, Phago now appears firmly in the frame and potentially poised for his long-awaited first-team bow.
During Kaizer Chiefs’ maiden DDC title in 2024, Phago played a major role in that success. It followed after winning the club’s U19 Player of the Season award in 2023.
WHAT PHAGO COULD OFFER KAIZER CHIEFS
Known as “Spanish Guitar”, the Krugersdorp-born midfielder is not a typical holding player. The left-footed number six stands out for his calmness, mature decision-making and ability to control matches.
He also brings attacking qualities uncommon for many deep midfielders, having shown a willingness to push into dangerous areas and contribute goals in the DDC against Orbit College and Stellenbosch FC.
Former Carling All Stars coach Manqoba Mngqithi has already publicly praised him as a “very, very good football player” and argued he is good enough for top-flight football.
From training with the first team to boarding the flight to Durban, Phago suddenly looks closer than ever to wearing Kaizer Chiefs colours at senior level.
Meanwhile, Naledi Hlongwane and Kabelo Nkgwesa, who started the season with the senior team before returning to DDC football, have also made the trip.
Also read: Daily Transfers: Chiefs striker returning to Africa? Pirates signing two midfielders?
DO YOU EXPECT HIM TO EARN HIS DEBUT FOR AMAKHOSI THIS WEEKEND?
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