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Cape Town - Promising Kaizer Chiefs MDC and South Africa under 20 striker Itumeleng Shopane says Amakhosi youth coach Arthur Zwane has played a big role in his development.
Shopane's form for the Chiefs under 17 side and later for their MultiChoice Diski Challenge (MDC) team earned him a call-up to the Amajita side that qualified for the U-20 World Cup last month.
Speaking to the Chiefs website, the 19-year-old marksman from Taung in the North West province has credited former Amakhosi winger and now youth coach Arthur Zwane as having played a big role in his development.
"Arthur Zwane was always my role model, as, just like me, he used to play on the wing. He was so skillful, I loved to watch him play and learn from it. And now he is my coach," he explained.
It was Zwane who recognised Shopane's potential up front and moved the teenager into a more central striking role.
"Coach Arthur has helped me tremendously, both on the field, with my positioning, and by offering guidance off the field. He's always there for us," Shopane said.
Shopane has also enjoyed working under MDC coach Ace Khuse - "Coach Ace and Coach Arthur have the same style of training."
Zwane offered some words of praise for the exciting young talent:
"Itumeleng has a good attitude and he respects his elders. He's a fine athlete and he uses speed and explosiveness in one-on-one situations."
