Kaizer Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane has praised Njabulo Ngcobo after making a ‘massive comeback’ with a man-of-the-match performance against Richards Bay on Saturday.
Ngcobo joined Amakhosi from Swallows with a huge reputation and expectations after winning the PSL defender of the season award in the 2020/21 season.
However, his first campaign at Naturena didn’t go according to plans as he struggled with game time which also contributed to his performances.
The Bafana Bafana defender even lost his cool after he was substituted against Golden Arrows at Princess Magogo Stadium, which was his last game for 2021/22.
Starting his first match after the incident in his hometown, Ngcobo reminded football fans about his exceptional talent as he produced a man-of-the-match display in front of a full-packed Moses Mabhida.
His coach Arthur Zwane hailed the defender as a player who is needed in modern football with the hope that he can be consistent.
“Njabulo is a top and risky defender; in modern football, you need an arrogant [defender] and [who] understands the game very well like him.
“He did well for the team, for himself, and what is important is boosting player’s confidence.
“He played well and deserved this praise. I hope he keeps this performance,” Zwane told the media.
“We know that as a player, there are times where you get hungry for game time.
“I think today he showed that, and it also reminds us that we shouldn’t kill our players because of one mistake.
“We must ensure we don’t destroy players after a mistake because we will lose them. Players need to know they must always minimise their mistakes.”
Zwane also praised Siyethemba Sithebe for his attitude, as he has produced some excellent performances since joining Amakhosi despite the challenges he faced before moving to Gauteng from AmaZulu.
“On Sithebe, during the pre-season, we knew every player’s struggle; we had to work on them; he has shown a good display and how strong he is, a team player that shows discipline and respects the game very well.”
