‘I’m enjoying myself at Chiefs: ‘Mduduzi Shabalala

Kaizer Chiefs starlet Mduduzi Shabalala has revealed why he is always on top of his game and playing good football under coach Arthur Zwane, despite the team struggling.

Shabalala and Zwane have a strong bond and a good working relationship, having worked together at Chiefs’ reserve team.

Amakhosi are not at their best form this season, as they are blowing hot and cold, failing to grind results at times. As it stands, Chiefs are fifth on the DStv Premiership log standings with 28 points from 20 matches.

The 19-year-old, Shabalala has always been on form whenever given an opportunity to be on the pitch.

He currently sits on two goals in the league. He was on target on Sunday as the Soweto giants went down 3-2 to Golden Arrows in a league clash.

SHABALALA EXPLAINS WHY HE’S PERFORMING WELL UNDER ZWANE

Zwane was the coach that gave Shabalala his breakthrough to the reserves to play in the DStv Diski Challenge, then promoted him to the Amakhosi senior team ahead of the current season.

“I have been coached by coach Arthur [Zwane] since I was 18 when I joined Kaizer Chiefs. He was the first coach to promote me to the DDC,” Shabalala told the media.

“I know him very well and I know what he wants for me. It’s not that difficult for me and you could see the way that I’m playing. I have adjusted very well and I’m enjoying myself.

“It (the mentality) helps you to fight in the game. It always helps to think that you are good enough so that you don’t look down on yourself.

“You can see what is happening in football. There are young players who are playing in the best leagues, including Barcelona’s Pedri.

“Kylian Mbappe has played in two World Cup finals and won one at 24 years of age. So, you’ll be a small boy until when?

“You always have to give your best and ensure that you fight for your position in each and every game.”

SHABALALA’S DREAM

Shabalala who is in line to play his first Soweto derby on Saturday 25 February stated that participating in the match will be a dream come true.

“Playing my first derby it’s something that I have always dreamt about since I was a kid going to the stadium going to watch players like Itu [Itumeleng Khune] and Happy Jele. So it’s something I had always looked up for,” Shabalala added.

The much anticipated Soweto rivalry at the icon FNB Stadium kicks off at 3:30pm.

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