After struggling for consistent playing time last season, Sphelele
Mkhulise is making a case for a more prominent role at Mamelodi Sundowns,
having featured in two consecutive Betway Premiership matches.
The 29-year-old midfielder, who has previously been linked with a move away
from Chloorkop, impressed in a substitute appearance against TS Galaxy on
Wednesday, displaying the quality that has long made him a fan favorite.
This followed a late cameo against Orlando Pirates over the weekend.
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has now shed light on why Mkhulise remains a
valuable asset to the club, praising his professionalism and specific
skillset.
“Pitso (Mkhulise) is a player we believe is the identity of the club,”
Cardoso stated after the narrow 1-0 victory over Galaxy. “He is someone who
can bring control of the matches.”
Cardoso explained the tactical thinking behind the substitutions, noting
that against Pirates, the team needed Mkhulise’s control. Against Galaxy, he
was brought on to relieve Nuno Santos, who was carrying a minor leg issue.
The coach was full of praise for the midfielder’s attitude, adding, “Pretty
happy with the work of Pitso. He is 100 percent a top professional. He works
the same since the first day I arrived here till today… It’s very
difficult to see Pitso in a day where he is not working seriously.”
Having played only four matches this season, Mkhulise will be hoping that
this vote of confidence from his coach translates into more minutes on the
pitch as Sundowns continue their campaign.
