Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena believes newly appointed Venda Football Academy mentor Michael Loftman has all the ingredients needed to oversee the changes he wants to be made to player development in Mzansi and become a top coach as well.
“We had a player development programme at Pirates, which he oversaw. He’s solid from the education side. He has strong character and personality, and I think he will be a top coach. His love for the game and passion would not allow him to sit too much in the office,” Mokwena told FARPost.
The two worked closely at Orlando Pirates, and Mokwena tips him to do well in his coaching career.
The London-born mentor was named Venda coach on Sunday after penning a three-year deal.
Loftman has been part of several technical teams in the past, including Orlando Pirates and the Egyptian national side and now takes over from Johnny Ferreira, who was relieved of his duties as head coach.
Luvhengo Mungomeni, while Rowan Hendriks, who was Ferreira’s assistant, has now been named Head of Development.
“The Venda Football Academy project is a very exciting opportunity to develop players and compete with some great teams in the GladAfrica Championship,” Loftman said in a statement released by the club.
“It is a privilege to be given the opportunity. Thank you to the Chairman of VFA, Mr Munzhelele, and Mr Ramaite for showing the faith and support to me to help the club reach its objectives.”
Venda Football Academy achieved a fifth-place finish in their debut campaign in the GladAfrica Championship this past season.
