A former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder has offered a critical assessment of Siyethemba Sithebe, whose contract with the club is expiring soon.
The Newcastle-born Sithebe, who joined Chiefs in 2022 from AmaZulu FC on a free transfer, has struggled somewhat to make an impact. And his time at Chiefs has been plagued by injuries.
In what was his second appearance this season, Sithebe returned to action when Chiefs drew 0-0 with Cape Town City at Athlone Stadium in March.
With his contract expiring at the end of the season, his future at Chiefs remains uncertain.
Ntokozo Sikhakhane, who also played the midfield role at Chiefs between 2005 and 2007, thinks Sithebe isn’t a good fit for Chiefs’ playing style.
He suggests the 31-year-old would fare better at his former club, AmaZulu, or a team with less pressure.
NTOKOZO SIKHAKHANE’S VIEW ON SIYETHEMBA SITHEBE
“They can release him, in games that he has played for Chiefs, there’s nothing special he has done,” Sikhakhane told FARPost.
“And I still believe that he’s not the top midfielder, he’s just a player. But because Chiefs, they just sign any player.
“Once you shine at Santos, they bring you in, once you shine at AmaZulu, they bring you.
“They don’t look at whether you’re going to fit in their style or in their structure.
“So, for Sithebe, he hasn’t been playing for two years and he can’t prove himself in the last ten games. What was he doing all along?
“I think he’d do well at AmaZulu. I’d advise him to go back.”
With 35 appearances for Chiefs, Sithebe awaits the club’s decision on his future. Several other players, including Edmilson Dove, Njabulo Ngcobo, Lehlogonolo Matlou, Sifiso Hlanti, and Itumeleng Khune, are also in the same situation with expiring contracts.
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