Rising star Samkelo Zwane has opened on being promoted to the first team and the pressures of playing for Kaizer Chiefs.
The emergence of Zwane was one of few sliver linings in a disappointing 22/23 campaign for Amakhosi, that saw them finish fifth on the DStv Premiership without a piece of silverware to show.
The midfielder had been come through the club's academy ranks and impressed in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team, prompting then senior team head coach Arthur Zwane to take the gamble of promoting him. the youngster made 15 appearances for Amakhosi's first team.
READ | Mfundo Vilakazi reveals Riveiro's advice
Speaking on Kaizer Chiefs' segment of Inspired, Zwane explained the differences between playing in the reserve team and the senior team.
"I think the biggest difference is the pressure," Zwane said.
"I think that's the only difference because the was it's been structured; the development and the senior team is similar so that If you do get promoted, it's not a hard induction.
"I think to be a Kaizer Chiefs player, you have to have some sort of character. I don't really think too much about what people say."
The new season has not brought better fortunes for Zwane, who has made seven appearances this season.
"I don't remember the exact date but in September 2022, away, that's when I came on as a substitute.
"I think I came on in for about 15 minutes. I think I played well, I feel like I showed glimpses [of what I can do]."
Samkelo ZwaneScan the pitch, collect the ball and Pass onxibe nje ngawe simple like that ???? love him pic.twitter.com/c0TfhFtZra
— Phronesis????? (@Cadre57226632) November 2, 2022
ALSO READ | Chiefs star: I would have liked to see my teammates at Bafana
The new season has not brough brighter fortunes for Zwane, who has made just three appearances under Molefi Ntseki.
"The young man (Zwane) is working very hard, the young man is doing very well. His time will come and when that time comes, he will take the number six role and the older guys will have to fight to take him out of the team," Ntseki responded. When asked on the youngster's limited playing time.
The arrival of interim head coach Cavin Johnson may prove to be a lifeline for the 22-year-old, who has since made four more appearances in the seven matches that Johnson has overseen.
Chiefs will return to competitive action with a DStv Premiership clash on 13 February against TS Galaxy.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!