Share

Maturing Moleko a '24-hour professional' for Chiefs

Cape Town - Kgotso Moleko says increased maturity and tactical discipline have enabled him to put in some solid performances for Kaizer Chiefs at right back.

The 28-year-old has featured in Amakhosi's last four matches after a long-term injury to Ramahlwe Mphahlele (expected back around January) left the right-back berth up for grabs.

During this time, the Chiefs defence have conceded only one goal, thanks to some brilliant displays by goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, ably supported by the men in front of him.

The former Bloemfontein Celtic defender has not been able to hold down a regular place in the team during his five previous seasons, but says he's always ready for the call and spoke of his strong relationship with Mphahlele.

"To be honest, I have nothing to prove. I have been here for long, and have been sitting outside (on the bench) for a long time,"  Moleko told the Star.

"I know the culture of the club. It's important for me to take the opportunity and help the club to win.

"I am a 24-hour professional. Whether I am playing or not playing, I look after myself. I am always focused and supporting Rama (Mphahlele).

"He will tell you that after each and every game, I go to him and say 'Well done'. For me, it is all about supporting each other. And that works for us.

"Even at half-time, I will go and tell him if there's something wrong and he wants to figure it out. We are always talking on WhatsApp. The idea is to help each other improve. We spend a lot of time doing that."

Moleko also feels he has grown as a person and a player, adding: "It is all about reading the game. And being disciplined, not like before. I used to go all over.

"I am becoming mature and the guys next to me are very experienced and helping me a lot. I think it helps to look after myself. I feel sharp."

Chiefs next host the undefeated Baroka FC at the FNB Stadium in a PSL clash on Saturday, hoping to close the gap to the early league pace setters.

Kick off is at 18:00.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2251 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE