AmaZulu bombshell: Siphiwe Tshabalala wasn’t really signed to play

While Siphiwe Tshabalala’s future at AmaZulu remains unclear, a former Bafana Bafana player believes the veteran midfielder still has a role to play.

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There were a number of questions asked when AmaZulu unveiled Siphiwe Tshabalala at the beginning of the season, especially regarding his fitness as he had not played for over a year.

However, Sandile Ndlovu believes Siphiwe Tshabalala wasn’t necessarily signed to play many matches and his signing was more a marketing strategy by businessman owner, Sandile Zungu.

Ndlovu, born in Pietermaritzburg, played for Mamelodi Sundowns, Dynamos, Maritzburg United and Moroka Swallows during his career. He also made three appearances for Bafana Bafana.

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“Shabba has done so much in his career and I don’t think being at Usuthu was about him playing regularly. It was more a move that would add something brand-wise because football is business and Zungu understands that part very well,” Ndlovu told the Kickoff website.

“He can still contribute by inspiring young players in the team and I think he can do more off the field than playing. There are so many roles he can play.”

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Siphiwe Tshabalala’s future at the club is set to be decided before end of the current transfer window, with coach Benni McCarthy still mum about what will happen to the 36-year-old.

McCarthy is on record as saying he “couldn’t remember if Siphiwe Tshabalala’s name was on the transfer list“.

AmaZulu, who are currently seventh in the DStv Premiership standings, face a mouth-watering next match away against Kaizer Chiefs on Wednesday, 17 February at 15:00.

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