Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo claims the young talent in the Carling All Stars squad showcases that the future of South African football is bright.
The 28-year-old midfielder formed one of the senior figures amongst five DStv Diski Challenge youngsters in the PSL XI that beat Stellenbosch 2-1 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Saturday.
Pirates teenagers Kagiso Mnguni and Jabulani Mokone played alongside him in the starting line-up and impressed as they raced into a 2-0 lead inside the first 15 minutes.
Kaizer Chiefs sensation Mfundo Vilakazi was on the scoresheet and entertained with his natural flair, and while there were some glaring errors, expected of youngsters playing in front of a sizeable crowd for the first time – there was plenty to be excited about.
“It wasn’t easy playing with players you’re not used to and more especially the young ones, you have to kind of like babysit them time and again so they can be able to understand what you’re saying,” Ndlondlo said.
“But it was a great experience for me to [be part] of that kind of vibe, it’s where I also started, playing with [experienced] players guiding me, didn’t lose patience with me to adjust and express myself, so it’s what I tried to do, so I can help them get in the game.”
Ndlondlo who’s been an ever-present figure in the Pirates team since his move from Marumo Gallants says he was impressed by how the youngsters took and applied tactical instructions throughout.
“Our future generation is in good hands, because what I saw from the DDC players, there’s too much potential and talent in those guys, one thing I liked about them was their willingness to listen to what others are telling them,” he added.
“It’s one of the things that helps them become better. so they can learn, you know if you have that willingness to learn from someone who’s been in the game, you learn as well – it intrigued me a lot and the future generation is in good hands.”
