Upbeat Madisha learning to be a leader at Downs

Ex-rookie looks forward to bigger role in new season

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Motjeka Madisha says he has learnt a lot from the senior central defenders at the club, especially in terms of leading the team.

Madisha, who’s inspired by team-mate Ricardo Nascimento and Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane, said his game benefited since his promotion to the first team earlier this year.

He has come a long way since making his senior team debut in the Nedbank Cup tie against Mariveni United in March, which Sundowns won 2-0.

Madisha, 22, went on to feature in all Sundowns’ 11 last league games of the season and hopes he can keep his place in the new season. He has also featured on a regular basis in CAF Champions League.

“It’s been challenging to compete with experienced players like Wayne (Arendse), Ricardo and Thabo (Nthethe) ... It’s a privilege to work with such wonderful people,” said the 2016/17 PSL young player of the season nominee.

“Next season will still be a difficult journey for me to still try to cement my place in the team, but through hard work and being humble, anything is possible for me,” he said.

Considered a future leader, Madisha is grateful to head coach Pitso Mosimane.

“There was a time I thought I was ready when I was in the MDC (Multichoice Diski Challenge) team and the coach told me that I shouldn’t let my feelings control me. The coach told me that I should just be humble and keep doing what I always do ... and improve ...”