Ex-SA junior international picks his best defenders of the season
Former SA Under 23 International Nkhiphitheni Matombo has picked up what he says are his best defenders in the DStv Premiership this season.
The 2023/24 campaign is nearing its conclusion, with only a few matches remaining. As has become customary in recent years, Mamelodi Sundowns are firmly in control at the top of the table.
Masandawana scooped the majority of the PSL awards last season and are expected to do the same this season. One of the players awarded was Bafana Bafana right-back Khuliso Mudau.
THE BEST DEFENDERS IN THE DSTV PREMIERSHIP ACCORDING TO NKHIPHITHENI MATOMBO
Matombo says Mudau, alongside Mothobi Mvala and AmaZulu FC defender Riaan Hanamub, are his best Defenders this season.
“So far for me I would pick Khuliso Mudau, Mothobi Mvala and Riaan Hanamub,” Matombo told FARPost.
“Everything that Sundowns start, they do so with Mvala at the back. He makes Sundowns play. For me, one of these three should be the Defender of the Season.
“For Khuliso, I think he gives Sundowns everything that they need, even for the national team. Whether they are attacking or defending. Even Hanamub does what Khuliso does for AmaZulu on the left-back. As for Mvala, if he is not there, you will see there is something missing when Sundowns start the ball.”
CALL FOR THE CURRENT CROP OF PLAYERS TO SHOW MORE COMMITMENT
Matombo has also called on the current crop of players to show more passion on the field. He believes the lack of supporters at the stadium reflects a lack of commitment from players.
“Of course, there is a huge difference [between the current crop of players and the older generation], ” he said. “Obviously, during those days when we played football, it was never about money but passion.
“But things are different now, and there is too much money involved, which has been a huge factor. That’s why you can see even with the supporters, they shy away from attending matches because they can see players are not too committed.”
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