Our future looks in good hands

Could this be a season of wonderful surprises? The first couple of Absa Premiership matches seem to suggest so. There have already been 35 goals scored and there have been a few youngsters who have shown they have the ability to stand up and be counted among the best in the league. It promises to be one of the most exciting seasons in the Absa Premiership era. One major thing to really look forward to in this campaign is the future stars of the game, who have made a breakthrough into the senior teams. Phakaaathi reporter Tshepo Ntsoelengoe picks five youngsters who he feels have a great future and are worth watching out for.

Augustine Mahlonoko

Club: Orlando Pirates Position: Midfielder

Age: 16 Teenager Mahlonoko has already made history in the colours of the Buccaneers as he became the youngest player to have made his debut at the club when he came on as a second-half substitute in their opener against Highlands Park. Coach Micho Sredojevic has high hopes for the youngster and regards him as a perfect replacement for legend Steve Lekoelea.

Tholang Masegela

Club: Maritzburg United Position: Attacking midfielder

Age: 20 The new Maritzburg United man has shown glimpses of what can be expected of him after his display during the team’s 1-0 loss to Cape Town City in the quarterfinals of the MTN8 this past weekend. A former French Ligue 1 player for Ajaccio, Masegela is very skilful and has an eye for goal. If his display against City is anything to go by, then Maritzburg have got a gem.

Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya

Club: Kaizer Chiefs Position: Defender

Age: 21 The young Amakhosi leftback has started the side’s first three games this season and is improving game by game. He seems to have cemented his place in the Chiefs starting line-up and plays like he has been in the team for many years. The defender is very comfortable on the ball and overlaps superbly, firing in crosses for his strikers.

Keanu Cupido

Club: Cape Town City Position: Defender

Age: 20 The City defender has had a stint in France where he played for Ajaccio alongside Tholang Masegela. He is a former South Africa junior international and his experience is vital for City. He came in very handy for the club when he scored the only goal of the match when Benni McCarthy’s charges sauntered into the semifinals of the MTN8 by beating Maritzburg United.

Fagrie Lakay

Club: SuperSport United Position: Striker

Age: 21 The versatile player, who can also play as a winger, has brought in an element of young fresh legs in a United side that like to play with speedy players like Thuso Phala. Lakay is not only good on the ball, but his contribution in defending and breaking out on attacks will no dou bt play a huge role in SuperSport United’s drive for success this season.