Philadelphia Union coach Bradley Carnell has praised his fellow South African defender Olwethu Makhanya who has enjoyed an impressive breakout season with the MLS side three years after moving to the USA.
The 21-year-old struggled to get game on arrival at the MLS Side until Carnell’s arrival, and he has grabbed the opportunity with both hands playing in 31 matches this season and scoring two goals. With Makhanya part of the defence, the side finished first in their conference [Eastern] just ahead of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and also won the Supporters’ Shield.
Carnell, who was voted the MLS Coach of the Season, spoke to iDiski Times senior journalist Matshelane Mamabolo about Makhanya’s growth and qualities saying the former Stellenbosch FC man is as brave and committed like a Zulu warrior.
“Exceptionally well,” expressed the former Bafana Bafana international to iDiski Times.
“He joined the club about a year-and-a-half ago, and when I arrived, I already understood his qualities. With one of our Argentine signings injured, Olwethu stepped up massively.
“His growth has been incredible – brave, committed, almost like a Zulu warrior. He played big minutes, contributed two goals, and embraced our philosophy fully. It helped that he felt free and supported working with a fellow South African.”
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