Johannesburg - Orlando Pirates captain Thabo Matlaba admits that he prefers the left-back position following his two consecutive games playing on the right.
A suspension for the Buccaneers' preferred right-back, Ntsikelelo Nyauza, against Jomo Cosmos last month forced head coach Eric Tinkler to utilise the hard working Matlaba on the right and it was also the case against arch rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, at the weekend when the two sides shared the spoils after their 1-1 stalemate at FNB Stadium.
Matlaba, 28, told reporters in a post-match press conference that he is capable of playing anywhere the coach wants him to play but he is more comfortable on the left.
“Personally I enjoy playing more at the left back position than on the right,” insisted Matlaba.
“But if the coach wants me to play wherever he wants me to, I will play without any difficulties.
“I’m a professional footballer and I have to play for the team but my favourite position is the left-back.
“That’s where I feel more comfortable and I enjoy my game most playing there.”
With Ayanda Gcaba suspended for their next encounter against Ajax Cape Town at home on Wednesday, Matlaba is most likely to return to his favourite position.
The match will commence at 19:30.