Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has addressed Nkosingiphile Ngcobo’s lack of game time at the club, revealing what the talented midfielder needs to do to break into the starting line-up.
Ngcobo has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under Da Cruz, who took over the coaching hot seat ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season following the departure of co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef.
The 54-year-old French mentor arrived at Amakhosi under high expectations from fans desperate for a return to the club’s glory days and trophy contention. However, Da Cruz has faced a demanding start to life in Naturena, with the side producing inconsistent performances in recent matches.
In his bid to find a winning formula, Da Cruz has frequently rotated his matchday squad, leaving several players on the sidelines. Among those struggling to secure a regular spot is Ngcobo, one of the longest-serving members of the current Chiefs squad.
NGCOBO URGED TO WORK HARD FOR A PLACE IN THE STARTING LINE-UP
Addressing the situation, Da Cruz urged the attacking midfielder to remain patient and work hard in training to earn his place back on the pitch.
“Nothing happened; there is no issue with Mshini. There are players who play the same position as him, like [Mduduzi] Shabalala,” Da Cruz said. “For example, Shabalala is performing well. Mshini just needs to continue working, and if he continues working a lot, he will get his chance, as he already had against Golden Arrows in the MTN8.”
So far this season, the 26-year-old playmaker has managed just two appearances across all competitions. A product of the club’s youth academy, Ngcobo was promoted to the Chiefs senior team from the DStv Diski Challenge side back in 2017.
Overall, ‘Mshini’ has made over 120 appearances for Amakhosi in all competitions, scoring eight goals and registering three assists. The left-footed midfielder will aim to turn his fortunes around as he seeks to command a regular starting berth in the Chiefs line-up going forward.
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