Ndlovu assures United of his loyalty
Midfielder shelves talks for possible move to Downs
Siphesihle Ndlovu has demonstrated his commitment to Maritzburg United by asking for talks of a possible move to Mamelodi Sundowns to be put on ice.
The 22-year-old’s loyalty has been questioned after it emerged that the Brazilians were after his signature and had engaged in talks with the Team of Choice.
“It’s simply not true that I’m no longer committed,” Ndlovu told the Sowetan yesterday. Ndlovu has endured a torrid time this season with fans questioning whether he’s still keen to play for the club. This emanates from the club’s struggles this season, which sees them lie 15th on the Absa Premiership standings after nine matches.
He played a huge role last season, missing just three league games to help the team finish fourth, their highest position ever . Following his great season, which saw him bag the 2017/18 PSL Young Player of the Season accolade, as well as being named the League’s best midfielder, it came as no surprise that he was linked with a host of clubs, specifically Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. He’s also earned a few Bafana call-ups.
“There shouldn’t be any questions about my commitment at all,” he insisted. The player’s business manager, Jazzman Mahlakgane, confirmed Sundowns’s interest, but also added that Ndlovu has made his feelings known about the situation. Mahlakgane also made it clear that Ndlovu won’t sign a pre-contract either.
“If he signs a pre-contract, that means he’s got two contracts and his commitment is divided,” stated Mahlakgane, who also manages the careers of Turkey-based Siphiwe Tshabalala, among others. “I think his decision to put this thing on hold is good for his career and his current club. Once you sign a pre-contract, say with Sundowns for example, his commitment to Maritzburg would be distracted because he would have a club that he’s moving to,” Mahlakgane added
“I’ve never been a big fan of pre-contracts. I feel they rob a player of commitment to fight for where they are.” Maritzburg boss Farook Kadodia couldn’t be reached for comment at the time of writing.