Nengomasha keen to prove his worth

Cape Town - Former Kaizer Chiefs stalwart Tinashe Nengomasha admits he doesn't expect to earn a contract with the University of Pretoria based on his reputation.

The 33-year old was given a trial by AmaTuks boss Shaun Bartlett last week after a prolonged period in the footballing wilderness, having been released by Mpumalanga Black Aces last year.

The Zimbabwean international, who was once regarded as the best defensive midfielder in the Premiership, was a teammate of Bartlett during their time together at Amakhosi, but he admits his work ethic is what will win the former Bafana Bafana striker over.

"I played with Shaun [between 2006 and 2008], but at the end of the day it is about the work ethic in the field. If I'm not working hard enough and there are those working harder than me, then they deserve a contract ahead of me," the midfielder told Sowetan Live.

"In football, I don't believe people should do each other favours. If that happens, then it kills the morale of the other players and the team will not accomplish what they want."

The former Bidvest midfielder also highlighted the experience he's gained over 14 seasons in the Premiership would be invaluable for any team, even the more prestigious clubs.

He added: "Siphiwe Tshabalala's experience is helping Chiefs. Reneilwe Letsholonyane is also helping. Teko Modise's experience is helping [Mamelodi] Sundowns, so you can't take the experience away.

"What surprises me is that everyone was praising Andrea Pirlo when he was playing for Juventus despite his age.

"It is different here in Africa and people are quick to say he is old. So people are quick to judge, but I'm not concerned about that. When I came here [to join Chiefs], people said I was a wrong signing."

With the Harare-born midfielder spending the bulk of his professional career in South Africa, he can be eligible for a spot a local registered player, but the 31-time capped Zimbabwean is still in the dark over his immediate future.

"I can't predict what's going to happen [at AmaTuks] in terms of whether they would sign me. I have been training with the team for a week and I don't know yet. I can only promise that I will work hard and be committed."