Makgalwa sees Maritzburg as a stepping stone

KELETSO Makgalwa needs no motivation to deliver the goods during his one season loan spell at Maritzburg United from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Percy Tau, Siphelele Mkhulise and Motjeka Madisha have been in a similar situation that Makgalwa is finding himself in.

Tau, who is now playing in Belgium on loan from English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion, was once loaned out to Witbank Spurs in the National First Division (NFD). Tau grabbed his opportunity with both hands in the NFD and was recalled to the first team of Sundowns. He went on to be a star for Sundowns as he propelled them to Caf Champions League glory and the Absa Premiership title while becoming a Bafana Bafana star in the process.

Madisha was also loaned out to Highlands Park when they were still campaigning in the NFD. He worked his socks off and returned to Sundowns.

Mkhulise has been on loan at Richards Bay FC and Black Leopards. Sundowns have recalled him and Mkhulise is expected to be one of the shining stars this season judging by his displays in pre-season.

Makgalwa has also set his sights on delivering consistent performances so that he can return to Sundowns.

“I came here to get game time. I want to continue working hard. I want to do well for Maritzburg United so that I can go back to Sundowns,” a determined Makgalwa elaborated.

Makgalwa has been doing wonders for the development side of Sundowns. He has also been a colossal figure in the national under-20 team.

“I would love to improve in the final third. My aim is to score goals. Scoring goals is something that I’m good at. I have to work more harder up front. I also have to contribute more when we are not in possession of the ball,” he added.

He has started three games on his loan spell with Maritzburg and was on the scoresheet on debut against Free State Stars in an Absa Premiership clash.

“I know some of the players here at Maritzburg United. I played against some of them in the MultiChoice Diski Challenge. I’ve also played with some of them in the national team (under-20). I have a good relationship with them. We are used to each other. I’m getting along well with the rest of the team,” Makgalwa said.

Makgalwa is expected to play an integral role for The Team of Choice this season. The club recently lost some of their key players in Lebohang Maboe and Bevan Fransman. Maboe joined Sundowns and Fransman signed for Highlands Park.

“I’m hungry to showcase my talent. I came here to get game time. I’m looking forward to having good times here with Maritzburg United,” Makgalwa concluded.