A former Kaizer Chiefs defender has had his say on whether Siphiwe Tshalala can still play professionally with Bafana Bafana legend yet to officially hang his boots.
Tshabalala, who scored the first goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, has been without a club for three years following his exit from AmaZulu FC in the Betway Premiership.
He has occasionally participated in exhibition or legends matches, where his performance has impressed many, leading them to believe he still possesses significant talent.
However, former Chiefs centre-back Thabang Rooi acknowledged that while ‘Shabba' retains his skills and tricks, he is uncertain whether the former Free State Stars winger can compete with the fitness levels of contemporary players.
EX-CHIEFS DEFENDER’S ON WHETHER TSHABALALA CAN STILL PLAY PROFESSIONALLY
“Eish, I don't know about his fitness and if he still plays competitively with young players. I am saying this because with the current players, things have changed, and I don't know if he can adapt or match them with fitness as well as speed,” Rooi told Soccer Laduma.
“He can still have the skills but what about fitness and endurance to play at the highest level? For these reasons I don't think he can play professionally again.
“Of course, we know skill doesn't stop when you retire as you are always with it but there is a lot that goes into being a professional player,” he added.
“It comes with a lot of pressure and look at what is happening at Chiefs now! That could put him under pressure which could be a bit tough for him this time around. So, I don't think he can make it this time around.”
Speaking with media just last year in the Nedbank event, Tshabalala insisted he has yet to call it a day in football.
WHAT DOES TSHALABALA SAYS ABOUT HIS CAREER?
“I am at a level where I can say I want to go and play here. I would not want to play for the sake of playing,” said Tshabalala as quoted by The South African.
“I am not in a situation where I take everything that comes my way. I am not desperate. When I retire, I will tell you.
“I am still training, a lot, and I still play matches once a week. I am very active and still fit to play. I still love football and love playing the sport.”
