Cape Town - Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lucky Baloyi is prepared to fight to cement his berth in Amakhosi's midfield in the 2016/17 Absa Premiership season.
The 25-year-old in recent years has been competing for a starting-berth with veteran midfielder Reneilwe Letsholonyane, who has since departed to Supersport United.
Having been on loan at Moroka Swallows for the 2014/2015 campaign, Baloyi made a return to Amakhosi last season, making 16 starts and four substitute appearances in 22 matches.
"Last season I did get game-time, and the fact that I'm still in the plans of coach Steve for next season, comes as a motivational factor for me to double up my efforts in cementing my place at Chiefs' midfield," Baloyi told Vodacom Soccer.
With Amakhosi having recently made several noteworthy signings, including midfielders Keagan Buchanan and Enocent Mkhabela from Bloemfontein Celtic and Supersport United respectively. However, the Limpopo-born midfielder is not shying away from the challenge.
"Challenges will always be there in football, and the new players will add value in the team. And of course, the there will be more competition for a starting berth in the team in next season, but I'm not the type of player who shies away from the challenge," he added.
"I'm ready for a challenge next season and to add a value in the team next season," enthused Baloyi, who will be competing with Enocent Mkhabela for a defensive role in Steve Komphela's side in the upcoming campaign.