Leopard stars not registered
MBABANE – Royal Leopard have not registered 2014 MTN Premier League Player of the Season Sifiso ‘Sushi’ Nkambule and national team goalkeeper Phephisani Msibi for the ongoing Premier League of Eswatini season due to injuries.
‘Sushi’, as he is famously known to his football fans, suffered a recurring knee injury during preseason which has unfortunately ruled him out of action for the first round and his teammate Msibi injured his muscle while on international duty.
The Ingwemabalabala Hlatsi-born anchor-man confirmed when contacted by the Sports Desk that he did not register for the season and had high hopes that he would recover. “I will continue with my team, Royal Leopard if my injury heals but if it doesn’t heal, I will consider retirement,” he said.
Msibi, on the other hand, highlighted that he got a muscle tear while playing for the national team but was adamant that he would return to the football pitch once he got the green light from the Leopard’s doctors.
‘Sushi’ has spent 11 seasons at the blue and white outfit as a player, having joined the club after leaving Umbelebele Jomo Cosmos in 2011 and is regarded as one of the most decorated players in the local league with five Premier League of Eswatini titles; two EswatiniBank Cup titles; and countless player of the month accolades, among other achievements. Leopard’s Public Relations Officer (PRO) Frank Hurube, when contacted, boldly assured Leopard supporters that the duo belonged to the team and once both healed, they would definitely be welcomed back into the side. The pair follows Phumlane Dlamini and Barry Steenkamp, who have also not have been registered for the season.