Moloisane rejects ‘heavy’ Kaizer Chiefs jersey theory

Kaizer Chiefs defender Thabo Moloisane says the club’s famous shirt carries no extra weight for him, insisting his upbringing in Soweto has helped him understand the expectations surrounding the Amakhosi.

The 27-year-old joined Chiefs from Stellenbosch before the start of this season but has not felt the pressure often associated with playing for the Soweto club.

Moloisane believes the idea of a “heavy” Chiefs jersey is a myth and says his focus is simply on continuing to work hard and prove he belongs at Naturena.

“I don’t know… maybe it’s because I am a boy from Soweto, I don’t think there’s such a thing as a heavy jersey. For me, it’s to continue working hard. In Soweto there’s no jersey that’s bigger than you,” Moloisane said at Naturena yesterday.

The defender, who comes from Meadowlands, added that his selection for Chiefs reflected his ability and that he intended to make the most of the opportunity.

“I was chosen because I deserve to be here, I was chosen because I am capable, so I will continue to show my talent.”

Moloisane also has a personal connection with the club. He grew up close to Naturena and said Chiefs had been an important part of his life from an early age.

“Fortunately enough for me, this is the club that I know. I grew up just down the road from here [Naturena], so there’s deep love I have for Chiefs,” he said.

“Growing up this is literally all I knew… I remember as a small boy coming to fetch tickets here, so for me it is to write my own history at this club, to bring back the glory days.”

The centre-back will face his former club Stellenbosch at FNB Stadium tonight at 7pm, a meeting he admits will carry an emotional significance.

Stellenbosch played a key role in Moloisane’s career and helped provide the platform from which he eventually earned his move to Chiefs.

“Tomorrow [tonight] is going to be a bit emotional of course. They [Stellies] played a big role in my career… in my journey to get here. It’s going to be fun for me, personally because I enjoy this type of games,” he said.

Moloisane said he remained thankful to both clubs for their parts in his career.

“It’s only fair to start by saying I am grateful to Stellenbosch for the role they played in my career, to get to where I am. I am also grateful to Chiefs for giving me the opportunity to represent such a big club.”