Manqoba Mngqithi has shed light on why the midfielder is not starting games
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi insists Themba Zwane still has a big role to play in the team but his minutes must be managed carefully.
Zwane is yet to start a match this season and has made substitute appearances in four of his club’s five games, including Tuesday’s PSL season opener against SuperSport United, when he set up Iqraam Ryners for Sundowns' first goal as they won 2-0.
However, at 34, his coach feels he cannot play every minute if the club has to get maximum from him, hence his bench role.
Why is ‘Mshishi’ not a regular anymore?
“It is very important to make sure we don’t burn our 34-year-old early in the season,” Mngqithi told the media after the match.
“It is very important and it is something that is going to happen until you start to look at it as a problem but there is no problem.
“He understands how many games we are going to play this season. If we go for 90 minutes with Themba every match at 34, how far will he go in the season?
“For me, it is very important to make sure that we take care of Sundowns and not your wishes and aspirations.”
Themba Zwane is a true Sundowns legend
Zwane has kept delivering for Sundowns even at 34 and the club rewarded him with a new one-year contract in the off-season.
The midfielder has been at the club since 2011, winning eight league titles as well as the CAF Champions League, and is also among the fan favourites.
While Sundowns are managing his minutes, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has him as one of his main men as he has been a regular starter for the national team.
