Siyanda Ndlovu says Doctor Khumalo comparison has inspired his progress

Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns winger Siyanda Ndlovu says being compared with South African football great Doctor Khumalo has brought him great happiness and encouraged him to improve further.

The comparison was made by Ndlovu’s former coach, Manqoba Mngqithi, who believes the winger’s attacking qualities resemble those of the former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder.

Mngqithi played an important part in Ndlovu’s development during their time together at Golden Arrows. The winger made significant progress under his guidance, with his performances eventually earning recognition at international level.

Ndlovu said he was particularly pleased by the comments because he had watched Khumalo play and understood the scale of his ability.

“I think the way I was playing and the way the coach made me play, it came to a point that he likened me to him,” said Ndlovu.

“So, it made me very happy cause I got a little time to watch him. But I saw how massive the talent he had was.

“So, being likened to him made me happy and I dreamt that the way I play could be at a high level and get to represent the national team.

“Maybe hearing those words made me perform the way I was at Arrows. I followed those words so I could become what I am.”

The former Young Africans coach had previously praised Ndlovu by pointing to similarities between the player’s attacking style and that of Khumalo, one of South Africa’s most celebrated footballers.

For Ndlovu, the recognition provided additional motivation during his time at Golden Arrows. He said the comparison encouraged him to embrace the challenge of reaching a higher level and helped shape the performances that led to his progress with the club and Bafana Bafana.