Polokwane City ready to move on after Thabang Matuludi joins Sundowns

Polokwane City coach Bayano Moloto says the club are prepared to move forward after defender Thabang Matuludi completed his move to Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Bafana Bafana right-back had already been left out of Polokwane City’s plans before the transfer, with Surprise Manthosi stepping into the position this season.

Moloto wished Matuludi well but indicated that the club were focused on the emerging players who could replace him.

“Ah, that one is another issue. Also, Chiefs lost Cele to Sundowns, but what I can say to Thabang is all the best, son,” Moloto said.

“I think the young man has done very well, and if you look at Polokwane City, it is a team that produces the unknown. Like I said in my last interview, there is a gem that we are working with.

“We could see that Manthosi is one for the future, and I think there is another one to see in the future at right back.”

The coach also said Polokwane City were addressing defensive weaknesses as they aim to remain in the top eight.

The club have strengthened their goalkeeping options with the return of Oscarine Masuluke from Stellenbosch FC. Moloto believes the goalkeeper has brought valuable experience and leadership to the squad.

“No, he added value; he helped us a lot in terms of organizing the defense,” Moloto said.

“He is a player who is a leader, so that is something we are also looking at. He is also someone who will push Mathebula, so we want to bring balance in order to have good competition in our team.”

Polokwane City could receive another defensive boost when they face Usuthu, with Tlou Nkwe working towards a return from injury.

Nkwe was forced off before the end of the match against Marumo Gallants and is currently receiving treatment from the medical team.

“No, Nkwe got injured. If you watched the game between Marumo Gallants, he did not finish the game. He got injured, and I think he is working with the medical team,” Moloto said.

“Hopefully, we will have him in the next game.”