Da Cruz says competition, not conflict, behind Ngcobo’s limited Chiefs role

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says Nkosingiphile Ngcobo has been left out of the team because other players have performed better in his position, rather than because of any problem between the midfielder and the club.

Ngcobo, known as “Mshini”, has played in only two league matches for Chiefs this season. Speaking to reporters in Durban on Thursday, Da Cruz said the 26-year-old must continue working hard in training if he is to regain his place in the side.

The French coach specifically highlighted the form of Mduduzi “Mdu” Shabalala, who is currently ahead of Ngcobo in the selection order.

“Nothing happened; there is no issue with Mshini. Other players in his position have simply performed better, like [Mduduzi] Shabalala – Shabalala has performed well,” Da Cruz said.

“Mshini just needs to continue working hard. If he continues to work hard, he will get his opportunity, as he already has against Golden Arrows in the MTN8 (quarter-final).”

Ngcobo is understood to be looking for a move away from Naturena after finding himself on the fringes of the first team. The Pietermaritzburg-born midfielder recently signed with Belgian sports management agency Lupus Sports, with the aim of securing a new club before the January transfer window.

He last appeared for Amakhosi on 15 August, when he came on as a substitute for the final 12 minutes of a 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Since making his senior debut in 2017, Ngcobo has made 129 appearances for Chiefs. He has scored eight goals and provided three assists during that time.

While the player’s future remains uncertain, Chiefs are preparing for an important continental fixture against Red Arrows of Zambia.

The Soweto club will host Red Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday at 18:00 in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup qualification tie.

Chiefs must overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg to remain in contention for a place in the competition.