Kaizer Chiefs have continued to invest in youth after inviting three academy graduates to train with the first team ahead of the new Betway Premiership season.
Head coach Fernando da Cruz is assessing goalkeeper Naphtali Mokoena, goalkeepe, central midfielder Pheko Phango and left-back Kabelo Nkgwesa as preparations continue at Naturena.
KAIZER CHIEFS LOOK TO THE FUTURE
The trio have all impressed in the club’s development structures and will now have the chance to stake their claim in the senior squad.
Mokoena, 20, played a key role as Kaizer Chiefs’ side won the reserve league title last season. Nicknamed “Onana” by teammates, the young goalkeeper has already spent time training with the senior squad and is regarded as one of the club’s brightest prospects between the posts.
Central midfielder Phango, 21, is another player attracting attention. The Krugersdorp-born playmaker has earned a reputation for his composure on the ball, vision and passing ability, with his performances reportedly attracting interest from other Betway Premiership clubs.
Left-back Nkgwesa, 20, arrives with plenty of momentum after being named DStv Diski Challenge Player of the Season and Most Improved Player. His consistent displays helped Kaizer Chiefs collect 70 points on their way to lifting the reserve league title.
The latest promotions underline Kaizer Chiefs’ commitment to developing players from within, with Da Cruz now deciding which of the academy stars are ready to make the step up to senior football.
The 18-year-old goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba, who made his first team debut against Chippa United last season, is in camp with South Africa’s U23s.
NATURENA PIPELINE
Itumeleng Khune remains one of the greatest success stories to come out of the Kaizer Chiefs academy. The former goalkeeper spent his entire senior career at the club, winning several trophies and becoming one of the most recognisable figures in South African football.
Njabulo Blom also rose through the development ranks before establishing himself in the first team. His versatility, work rate and tactical awareness made him a regular in midfield and defence, eventually earning him a move to Major League Soccer outfit St. Louis City SC in the United States.
Defender Siyabonga Ngezana is another academy graduate who has gone on to enjoy success abroad. After cementing his place in the Kaizer Chiefs first team, the centre-back secured a move to Romanian giants FCSB, where he has continued his development in European football.
The latest academy graduate to head overseas is Aden McCarthy. The left-footed defender impressed during his breakthrough season before completing a move to Sabah FK in Azerbaijan. He will now continue his career in Europe after progressing through the ranks at Kaizer Chiefs.