Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson has commented on the future of midfielder Siyethemba Sithebe, whose contract expires in June.
The 31-year-old joined Amakhosi in 2022 from AmaZulu FC. While his performances haven’t been consistent, injuries have significantly impacted his time at the club.
This season, Sithebe has made only nine appearances, all in the DStv Premiership.
Following their 1-1 draw against Usuthu on Sunday, Johnson praised Sithebe for seizing and making the most of his recent playing opportunities.
The former Mbombela United man only returned to action in March after an injury layoff that began in August 2023. Johnson emphasised that Sithebe’s current focus is enjoying his football, regardless of whether “he stays or goes”.
CAVIN JOHNSON SAYS SIYETHEMBA SITHEBE ISN’T WORRIED ABOUT FUTURE
“Sithebe is doing well as far as football is concerned, I think he spoke the other day in the newspapers where he said that we’re not really worried about contracts at the moment,” said Johnson.
“What he’s worried about is playing football and he’s getting the opportunity to play football.
“When you see people like that, then you appreciate what he does for himself as a human being, what he does for football as a human being and what he’s doing for Kaizer Chiefs.
“The contract issues and things like that, he knows. What happens is either he stays or he goes but what he’s here for, he’s here to play football.
“So, that’s what he’s doing and that’s playing football and we appreciate that very much.”
Other players who will be out of contract Chiefs also include Itumeleng Khune, Sifiso Hlanti, Lehlogonolo Matlou and Edmilson Dove.
Meanwhile, the club is also expected to appoint a new head coach to replace Molefi Ntseki who was sacked last year. Johnson is set to return to his position as Head of Academy.
RELATED STORY: Chiefs return to eighth position after 1-1 draw with AmaZulu FC
