Kekana says Sundowns’ defensive reshuffle could become a strength

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana believes the club’s unsettled central defence could ultimately benefit them as the season progresses.

Injuries and rotation have required Masandawana to use several different combinations at the back. Kekana, Mothobi Mvala, Kegan Johannes, Malibongwe Khoza and Khulumani Ndamane have all played in central defence this season, while Keanu Cupido has been unavailable because of injury.

Sundowns added further cover on transfer deadline day by signing Wandile Dube from AmaZulu, taking the number of centre-backs in the squad to seven.

The changes are unusual for a side that places a high value on defensive consistency, but Kekana believes the disruption has helped the players become more adaptable.

“We’d all love to have a solid base, but this has helped us adjust to each other, and the positive things, is yes here and there we have been conceding – but I think we have been coming out victorious,” he said.

Although Sundowns have not been completely secure defensively, Kekana highlighted their ability to keep winning while the various partnerships develop.

The defender also believes the experience could be particularly valuable because of the number of matches the Tshwane giants face across the campaign.

“And to a certain extent, because of the amount of games that we will play this season – it’s going to help us gel in the beginning, it might not always look the best but I think going forward it will work to our advantage,” he said.

Sundowns are expected to rely on their full group of centre-backs during a demanding schedule spanning multiple competitions. The players’ familiarity with different defensive partners could provide an advantage as the season continues.

Dube’s arrival gives Mamelodi Sundowns another option in an area that has already been tested by injuries and selection changes. Kekana and his team-mates will now seek to turn the early uncertainty into greater defensive strength as the campaign develops.