Kaizer Chiefs defender Sfiso Hlanti promises to bring trophies to Naturena. Image source: @KaizerChiefs/Twitter

Kaizer Chiefs veteran handed a surprise lifeline

Football is a funny game.

by James Freemantle

01-05-2024 07:55

in Premier Soccer League

Kaizer Chiefs defender Sfiso Hlanti promises to bring trophies to Naturena. Image source: @KaizerChiefs/Twitter

Kaizer Chiefs left-back Sifiso Hlanti will stay at the club for one more season as the club values his seniority at Naturena.

Hlanti set for one more year

According to The Citizen, 34-year-old Sifiso Hlanti will remain at Kaizer Chiefs for another year as the club ponders triggering an extension on his deal expiring in June. Senior figures value his role in helping youngsters settle into the rigours of first-team football. Hlanti has been a key operator once again, despite being consistently linked with an exit, making 18 league appearances. This will reportedly be formalised once a new coach is installed. Hlanti boasts vast experience in South African football. He’s had stints with Golden Arrows, Chippa, Thanda Royal Zulu, AmaZulu, Bidvest Wits, Swallows and now Chiefs.

“Hlanti is very much valued by Chiefs. He’s a good professional who doesn’t drink or smoke and plays a crucial role in the background,” a source close to the club and the player told them.

Orlando Pirates Saleng Kaizer Chiefs — Monnapule Saleng of Orlando Pirates challenges Sifiso Hlanti of Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: BackpagePix

SITHEBE STAYING PUT

Speaking of experienced players who seemed certain to leave the club, Siyethemba Sithebe is also on the verge of agreeing a new deal. Soccer-Laduma reports that the former AmaZulu midfield schemer will sign a new two-year contract at Naturena when the season finishes.

“It will happen. It has started now and the club (Chiefs) has offered him (Sithebe) a two-year contract to extend at the end of the season. I think the player has done enough in the few games he has played to prove himself that he deserves a renewal. So, as it stands now, everything could be finalised before the end of the season,” said the source.

The Kaizer Chiefs Naturena Village in all its glory. Image: Ernest Makhaya

What’s next for the Glamour Boys?

Cavin Johnson’s men, fresh off a much-needed 2-1 win against SuperSport, are out to spoil the Sundowns party this week. The Brazilians will seal a seventh consecutive league title with three points on Thursday against Chiefs. They might even have the title wrapped up before that if Stellenbosch loses to Golden Arrows on Wednesday. Amakhosi face Sundowns on 2 May, with kickoff at 19:30. Amakhosi will want to put on a show for their fans and avoid rolling out the red carpet for Rulani and his team.