Royal AM co-coach Khabo Zondo has said blossoming midfielder Mfundo Thikazi needs to be managed well to remain level-headed and reach his full potential.
Zondo was commenting on the promising displays of Thikazi after coming off the bench in recent DStv Premiership games for the Durban-based side.
The coach said he would ensure that the 23-year-old gets proper protection for him to reach his full potential.
“Well, it is all about having a strong shoulder on which the player can anchor his head on, as this game has its own challenges. As you grow as a player, you come across many people, including some who can lead you astray. We are prepared to carry him to make sure he grows and becomes what he is supposed to be,” the Royal AM mentor told the media.
The coach said the KwaMashu-born player needs to deal with the pressure of playing top-flight football.
Zondo has, in his career, managed talented players such as Mabhudi Khenyeza, Vusi Vilakazi, Lucky Sibeko and Papi Zothwane.
The attacker has been a game-changer in the last four games he has featured as a substitute for Royal AM.
Thikazi made an impact on Saturday evening against Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 quarter-final loss, as he created a goal which Shaune Mogaila scored for Thwihli Thwahla.
Thabiso Monyane and Vincent Pule scored for the Buccaneers, who now date holders Mamelodi Sundowns in the semifinal, whereas Kaizer Chiefs take on AmaZulu FC.
Amakhosi saw off Stellenbosch FC on post-match penalties after a one-all draw in extra time, whereas Usuthu eased past Cape Town City 2-1 in another last-eight game.
On Saturday, Royal AM visits Richards Bay at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in their seventh game of the season.
They have won three games, drew one and lost twice. After amassing 10 points, they are in fourth place.
