Former Kaizer Chiefs academy defender Thabo Mokoena is training with Marumo Gallants as he looks for a chance to revive his career, FARPost has learnt.
The left centre-back is being assessed by the club, with a decision on whether to offer him a contract expected before the end of the FIFA international break.
Gallants are winless after seven league matches, drawing twice and losing five, while conceding 13 goals. They are considering defensive reinforcements. The poor start led to Phuti Mohafe’s departure, with Ronnie Kanalelo taking charge.
Mokoena is tall, strong in the air and comfortable playing out from the back. He also offers a threat at attacking set pieces. Gallants will now assess whether he is ready to help a defence that has struggled in the opening weeks of the season.
MOKOENA SEEKS A FRESH START
Mokoena came through Chiefs’ academy alongside players including Njabulo Blom, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Happy Mashiane, Given Thibedi and Siyabonga Ngezana. He earned a senior contract but did not establish himself in the first team.
A loan move to Pretoria Callies gave him a chance to play under Joel Masutha, but his progress stalled after a change of coach. A subsequent spell with the then Motsepe Foundation Championship side All Stars brought no playing time.
Mokoena has previously spoken about the frustration of waiting for a chance at senior level after showing promise as a youngster. His experience includes facing Brazil’s Vinicius Junior at 17 in youth international football.
The immediate question for Gallants will be his match readiness. Mokoena last played a competitive match in the 2022/23 season and has since been playing in the lower divisions.
The current training spell gives Kanalelo and his staff a chance to assess his fitness and whether he can strengthen their back line.
RELATED STORY: How Fernando Da Cruz is unlocking Luke Baartman in a new role at Chiefs
