Matthew Booth’s advice to struggling Cassius Mailula at Toronto FC
Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Matthew Booth has offered some advice to Cassius Mailula who is struggling for game time at Toronto FC in the MLS.
Mailula moved to the MLS in the USA after the completion of the 2022/23 PSL season. This was after an impressive stint with Masandwana, where he made a name for himself.
In that campaign, the talented attacker was on fire. He netted 15 goals and four assists in 31 matches in all competitions. For his great performances, he received a call-up to represent Bafana Bafana.
This season, Mailula has yet to make an appearance for Toronto, which has cost him his place on the national team.
Recently, Mailula’s coach, John Herdman, stated that the team has high-quality players, which is why the 22-year-old has yet to play.
BOOTH SAYS MAILULA SHOULD WORK HARD AND STAY READY TO PLAY
Booth has tipped Mailula to work extra hard so that when his chance comes, he will impress.
“To Cassius Mailula, perseverance is key,” Booth told FARPost. “I think you have to show the coach, the squad, and your teammates that you want to get into the starting line-up.
“That means going to training with a determined attitude. Don’t go there with your head down. Don’t complain, don’t mope around, and don’t become despondent.
“You have to show that you want to play and have a positive attitude—that’s all that one can do. That would mean your body language and physical preparation give you the chance to give your best when you do get a chance.
“There’s nothing worse than a player who is not physically and mentally ready. And then all of a sudden, he’s given a chance to play and then fails at the moment. That’s something that anyone in his position must bear in mind.”
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