Siyanda Ndlovu prefers right flank, says Mamelodi Sundowns boss Miguel Cardoso

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says Siyanda Ndlovu’s preference for playing on the right has influenced where the exciting attacker has been deployed since joining the club from Golden Arrows.

Ndlovu established himself as a playmaker at his previous club and is also capable of operating in central and left-sided roles. However, he has played on the right in all five of his appearances for Mamelodi Sundowns this season, a position Cardoso believes could become his long-term role.

Cardoso was speaking after Sundowns defeated Golden Arrows 3-2 in Durban on Sunday to reach the MTN8 final, where they will face Orlando Pirates.

“When Siyanda or any player arrives at Sundowns, I usually put the structures that we use in front of them and I ask them for their favourite position.

“Siyanda was clear that his favourite position is on the right,” said Cardoso.

The Portuguese coach said Ndlovu’s versatility remained valuable, although the player had made it clear that he did not want to operate on the left.

“I know he can play in the middle and on the left but he doesn’t want to play on the left. I don’t know if it will happen for him to play on the left. It is not what you want but what you need.

“Antonio (Van Wyk) has played on the right but he prefers on the left. Our compromise has to do with building the team, momentum and availability of the players.

“It happens with all the players to have capacity to put them in their best positions to get the best out of them. But their capacity to play for the team will be decisive in order to make the difference for us.”

Cardoso also urged patience with Ndlovu, saying the attacker had shown reliability rather than producing spectacular moments during his recent starts.

The coach said expectations had risen around the player, with some supporters anticipating an immediate run of outstanding performances after his move to the Brazilians.

“You don’t see extraordinary things but you see consistency. The other day we were speaking because everyone thought it was going to be a miracle and he would start making extraordinary things.

“In the last two matches that he played in the starting eleven, you didn’t see something extraordinary, but you saw consistency.

“A lot of consistency because he is a high-level player. Let’s see if he can continue because the games will give him opportunities to do things naturally and without pressure.”

Ndlovu’s ability to play in several attacking positions gives Cardoso options as he continues to balance individual preferences with the needs of the team. The coach’s comments indicate that players’ willingness to contribute wherever they are required will ultimately determine how regularly they occupy their favoured positions.

Sundowns’ victory over Golden Arrows secured their place in the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates, while Ndlovu’s continued involvement on the right offers him the opportunity to build on the consistency Cardoso has identified.