Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has explained why attacking midfielder Neo Maema has been missing in action for the club lately.
In the current campaign, Maema has played in 15 matches for Bafana Ba Style across all competitions. He scored one goal and contributed two assists.
The last time he featured for Sundowns was during the Nedbank Cup Round of 32 when Masandawana thrashed NB La Masia 6-1 at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday, 20 February 2024. He came in as a second-half substitute.
RULANI MOKWENA ON NEO MAEMA MISSING IN ACTION
Mokwena revealed that Maema has “got a bit of struggle”, and his performances in the PSL have shown that lately.
He went on to state the talented attacking midfielder has to fight for his place in the starting eleven like everyone else in the team.
“Well, Neo has got a bit of struggle. You have seen even with his performances not so good,” said the 37-year-old mentor.
“But he will come alright, and of course, he has to wait for his turn. He’s a very good player, and we need him.
“He will work his way back into the team, and I’m 100% sure about that. But he has to fight now because you see Tashreeq [Matthews], Gaston [Sirino], and Sipho [Mbule], they’re doing well. He has to fight for his place like all the other players.”
Mokwena continued: “Lebohang [Maboe] has been playing well, and it’s a bit unfair to put Lebo on the bench after such good performances. But we have to try to rotate the team. Sphelele Mkhulise, also, wasn’t playing.
“So, is what happens at a big club, so he has to fight like everyone else. But my message to him and to all the players who are not even on the team is that we need them. It’s going to be a difficult season; everyone has to make a form of contribution towards the end.”
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS FLOURISHING TOP OF THE TABLE
Sundowns are currently flourishing nicely at the top of the DStv Premiership log standings, with 45 points from 17 outings.
The Chloorkop-based outfit remains the only side in SA’s elite league to have not suffered a defeat this campaign.
RELATED STORY: Rulani Mokwena explains why he dislikes being glorified
