Ex-Moroka Swallows midfielder Andries Mpondo wants to see coaches getting more out of Orlando Pirates and Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
The 20-year-old has been wearing the captain’s armband while Nkosinathi Sibisi was out injured.
Should he be playing a different role?
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20-year-old Mbekezeli Mbokazi already looks like the finished article at centre-back with his cultured passing and impressive physicality. Ex-Swallows midfielder Andries Mpondo sees another role for the impressive star, though.
“Mbokazi is the best player in the PSL right now, and he is destined for greatness. He reminds me of Mbulelo Mabizela. I hope he remains humble and continues to play good football,” said Mpondo as per KickOff.
“As a coach, I wouldn’t play him as a defender. Mbokazi belongs in midfield – he has a strong football mind and is physically strong. He excels at marking, creating opportunities, and passing the ball effectively.
“He is a complete player. I would position him in midfield and give him a free role to both defend and attack.
“I feel he is currently being used incorrectly, but perhaps the coach prefers him as a centre-back because he helps defensively and is comfortable playing there, consistently performing well,” added Soweto-born and bred Mpondo.
“However, he would be even more effective if moved to midfield, where he could play as a destroyer. In my opinion, he is being underutilised.”
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What is Mbokazi’s best position long-term?
Well, that’s difficult to say, but with Pirates’ huge depth in midfield and the player’s excellent start to life in defence, he’ll continue there for the foreseeable future.