Shabba lauds Masango

Johannesburg - With the focus switching back to domestic football, Kaizer Chiefs winger Siphiwe Tshabalala believes in-form midfielder Mandla Masango holds the key to Amakhosi’s momentum and his presence will be needed when they take on the University of Pretoria this weekend.

Chiefs host AmaTuks at the FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon and they will aim to grab their sixth consecutive Absa Premiership win.

Tshabalala extended his praises to the rejuvenated Bafana Bafana man, stating that despite deserving a rest for this weekend's encounter, Masango is expected to make another positive contribution to the team.

Masango featured in Bafana’s last two matches against Sudan and Nigeria.

“Shabba” also hinted that the 25-year-old player’s patience is currently paying off after spending few seasons warming the Amakhosi bench.

“He really deserves a chance he is getting at the moment,” said Tshabalala.

“He has been working hard and I think he has been patiently waiting for it. And he is doing well to return the coach’s favour.

“I don’t know whether he will be rested for this weekend’s match or not. But currently he is one of our best players.”

Heading into the weekend’s clash, Chiefs are coming off a 2-0 win over the wounded SuperSport United thanks to Masango and Kingston Nkatha strikes, while AmaTuks are coming off a goalless stalemate against Mpumalanga Black Aces.

The match is scheduled to commence at 15:00 on Saturday.