Mamelodi Sundowns loanee Terrence Mashego has candidly reflected on his challenging tenure at his parent club, revealing the core reason behind his recent move to Durban City FC.
In 2022, Mashego fulfilled a lifelong ambition, moving from Cape Town City FC, to join Pretoria giants, Sundowns. The talented left-back arrived in Tshewane seemingly at the peak of his career, but Mashego soon hit an unexpected downturn.
For two years, his progress was derailed by a difficult period marked by prolonged injuries, a noticeable dip in form, and ultimately, a severe lack of game time. Now 29, Mashego revealed the scarcity of minutes was the key motivation for his season-long loan move to newly promoted Durban City in July.
“Obviously, it is mentally challenging as a player if you do not play because it’s something that you want to do. But I think I was positive enough, and I spoke to the [Sundowns] coach Miguel Cardoso] before I came here,” said Mashego.
“I said, you know what, if there is one thing that I need, it’s just game time as I need to play. Also, because I have been suffering a lot. I had injuries at Sundowns. My first season, I think I was out for nine months, and the following season I suffered from injuries.”
The former Cape Town City FC star added: “So of course it’s frustrating and it’s difficult for a player. So, for you to come back, you need game time.”
TERRENCE MASHGO EAGER TO RECLAIM HIS BAFANA BAFANA SPOT
With eight international appearances, Mashego joined Sundowns as a valued member of the Bafana Bafana setup. The full-back was also highly regarded by Bafana head coach Hugo Broos.
The consequences of the lack of action at club level were severe, as Mashego has since lost his spot in the national team. Acknowledging the high demands required for international selection, the 29-year-old remains confident he can reclaim his position. He expressed delight at being given this opportunity at Durban City to once again display his esteemed ability and push his way back into the national setup.
“It’s not easy, but like I said before, the only thing that you need is to be given an opportunity. So, I think the coach and the club have given me that opportunity,” he added. “So now it’s up to me as a player to prove it.”
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