Diski stars showing signs of maturity
New talent ready to step up to the senior ranks
A significant number of young players have shown flashes of brilliance in the MultiChoice Diski Challenge (MDC).
This calls for Premiership clubs to adopt a more openminded attitude towards giving them a chance at a higher level.
Having seen the likes of Kaizer Chiefs’ Wiseman Meyiwa and Lyle Foster of Orlando Pirates climbing up from the development ranks to the senior sides recently, the following promising players are also worthy of following in their footsteps.
Siboniso Conco (Golden Arrows)
Conco, 22, was recently crowned MDC player of the season, bagging the aptly named “Precious Find” award. He finished the campaign as the reserve league’s top scorer with 11 goals.
Conco is a skilful, quick, agile and prolific forward. He has been described by Arrows coach Clinton Larsen as an “immensely talented player” who is “strong and powerful”.
Itumeleng Shopane (Kaizer Chiefs)
Since Chiefs MDC mentor Arthur Zwane converted Shopane from a striker to a full-back, the 20-year-old has shown he’s ready to challenge for a spot in the senior team.
The lad from Taung in North West won the Multichoice Diski Shield Player of the Tournament at the recent PSL awards. His versatility and endurance set him apart from other Chiefs’ youngsters.
Given Thibedi (Chiefs)
The 20-year-old Thibedi played a pivotal role in Chiefs’ Diski Shied Cup triumph last month. The budding midfielder is known for his aerial ability which, when combined with his physical strength, has seen him score numerous crucial goals for the junior Glamour Boys. Thibedi can also play as a right-back.
Ricardo Lourenco (Orlando Pirates)
Lourenco, 22, is one of a few consistent players in the Buccaneers’ MDC team. This promising lad primarily plays as a winger. He’s fast, tricky, and an excellent dribbler with great control of the ball.
That Pirates recently promoted another youngster, Siphumelele Mbulu, must give Lourenco some hope.
Promise Mkhuma (Mamelodi Sundowns)
With Percy Tau and Khama Billiat set to leave Mamelodi Sundowns, the Brazilians must look no further than Mkhuma, 18, to plug the void.
His physical strength, versatility, mobility as well as his ability in the air makes him a complete striker. Coach Pitso Mosimane can groom him the same way he did Keletso Makgalwa, who also came through the MDC ranks.