Mamelodi Sundowns utility player Thapelo Morena has discussed the pros and cons of having the ability to play several positions.
The Randfontein-born star emerged as a speedy right winger at Bloemfontein when he had a stint with Phunya Sele Sele between 2013 and 2016.
He was converted to right-back by Pitso Mosimane when joined the Brazilians in the 2016/17 season.
‘Jingles’ also utilised the 30-year-old as a striker. And Morena has, at times, featured as a left-back under Rulani Mokwena.
He feels being versatile gives one a better chance to play almost all the time, an advantage that not everyone has in the team. And the flip side of it is they don’t have a position that they specialise in and have to be moved around all the time.
THAPELO MORENA ON VERSATILITY
“I think it’s two ways, there is benefit and [sometimes] you don’t benefit,” he said in the Mamelodi Sundowns’ The Pitchside Podcast.
“Anyway if the coach says I want speed, [he picks] Thapelo [Morena]. And this week, there’s two quick attackers Sailor [Khuliso Mudau] and Thapelo.
“And then the following week, it’s a slow attack, slow defence…so it’s two ways. For me, I think I have already put it in the system that whenever the team needs me, I will always raise my hand and will definitely do my best in any position.”
The six-time league winner says he gets to understand other players’ roles rather than focusing on his position only.
‘YOUR MIND HAS TO BE OPEN’
“Besides that, when the coach has to do the tactics, you’re not focusing on one position. You know what he’s saying to the right-back, to the striker, left-back. So, your mind has to be open.
“Like now in the national team, our first game when we played Liberia here at home, I played as a right-back. When we got there [in Liberia] I played as a right winger.”
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