Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has opened up on the return of the right-back Khuliso Mudau who has been sidelined in the last four matches.
The 29-year-old defender was dropped from the team along with Teboho Mokoena for two CAF Champions League matches against Mbabane Swallows and Betway Premiership games against SuperSport United and Marumo Gallants.
Mngqithi’s decision was met with fierce criticism from many, considering that the two players were not nursing any injuries.
Mudau was included in the squad for a match against the mighty Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday, however, he started on the bench.
The former Black Leopards man was brought on in the 74th minute in the second half, with Mngqithi solidifying his defence as Amakhosi were looking to equalise.
After a successful 2-1 win against a revived Chiefs, Mngqithi admitted he was pleased to have Mudau back and commended him for the impact came with.
He felt the Soweto giants clash was the “right time” to throw Mudau in.
MANQOBA MNGQITHI SAYS IT WAS THE RIGHT TIME TO BRING KHULISO MUDAU BACK
“Yah man it was nice to have Mudau back. Like I said even before that they are going to come back and help us a lot,” said Mngqithi.
“I think today it was the right time to bring him and he did very well. He proved the quality that he has.
“No doubt, defensively he’s one of the best players you can ever have. In one against one, I think he’s in a class of his own.
“It was pleasing to see him performing the way he performed today, I was very happy.”
Meanwhile, Mngqithi also spoke about Mokoena who has missed five games in a row for the Tshwane giants. He believes the midfielder will be of help in various positions.
“Tebza is a very good player, he also even help us as an eight. That’s because of his dynamism, ability to score and aggression might be even more important for us going forward,” he explained.
“He’s a very good six for us.”
