Kaizer Chiefs defender Zitha Kwinika is reportedly set to extend his contract with the Soweto giants.
The 31-year-old centre-back has been in excellent form for the Glamour Boys, making 21 appearances across all competitions.
A year ago, Kwinika’s future at Naturena was uncertain, having fallen down the pecking order under Nasreddine Nabi. Rushwin Dortley’s injury and Miguel Inacio’s suspension gave the Soweto-born an opportunity towards the end of the season and he impressed.
Under Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, Kwinika has become a regular this season as Amakhosi look to get back to the top. His contract at Chiefs is coming to an end, but reports suggest the club might put down a new offer for the 31-year-old hardworking defender.
Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo feels the experienced defender deserves a new contract, having coached him in the junior ranks.
“This is one of the boys I once coached at the U/17 at Kaizer Chiefs. He is one of the products that came out of that development. His name is Elton Zitha Kwinika. He deserves one (contract),” Khumalo said.
Another Chiefs defender to be given new contract?
Given that Msimango was a forgotten figure until he made his return to action this month. Having been laid off with an injury, the former TS Galaxy played back-to-back games for Chiefs.
Amakhosi co-coach Ben Youssef has admitted that it was risky to play the defender for a full 90 minutes but had no choice.
“Just to answer that question, Given just came back from six months out of action,” he told the media.
“So, we are taking a big risk with him to play him for 90 minutes three days ago, now he has to play 90 minutes, and he must play another 90 minutes in the next game. We are taking a big risk because we don’t have centre-backs.”
If Msimango impressed the Chiefs coaches, he might have his contract extended before the end of the season.
“Regarding these fixtures, we have tried our best with our fitness coach, with our doctors, to manage the load, to do everything,” Ben Youssef said.