Bafana Bafana hero opens up on UK interest
Bafana Bafana hero Thalente Mbatha has spoken on the claims that English Championship team Cardiff City are interested in signing him.
The Orlando Pirates star who was one of the standout performers for Pirates during the pre-season camp in Spain, is claimed to have pleased Cardiff scouts who attended the matches.
Bafana Bafana star opens up on UK links
Before making the move permanent this season, the former SuperSport United midfielder spent last term on loan at Mayfair. He claims to be fully focused on his current squad.
“No, I didn’t know [about Cardiff’s interest], but I can say focus is at Pirates – I just got a contract at Pirates, so I think everything I’m doing, I’m doing it for Pirates and they are the ones that will decide what will happen in the near future,” said Mbatha.
Staying grounded
Mbatha, who is from KwaMashu in Durban, remarked on his first Bafana Bafana call-up, calling it a dream come true that would undoubtedly encourage young boys and girls from impoverished and rural areas.
He wants to keep his feet on the ground.
“I’m fortunate enough to be here, it’s a dream come true and I’d like to thank the God Almighty,” Mbatha said.
“One thing I can say is that hard work beats talent, so, if you work hard, it’s definitely going to pay off,” he added.
“As much as you have the talent, if you’re not working hard, I think some things will lack here and there, but if you mix talent with hard work, I believe you’re going to get somewhere.”
Orlando Pirates man wants to be Bafana hero
The 24-year-old, who just made his CAF Champions League debut with Pirates and previously played for SuperSport in the CAF Confederation Cup, feels gaining experience in continental football could help the national squad.
“It helped me a lot because I got to experience another level of football – the Champions League is not an easy stage or level to play on, so I think it’s something that’s going to help me going forward.
“It’s where I get the experience and learn more about the football industry, and I think it’s also where I have to push and tell myself it’s only the beginning,” he concluded.
Will Thalente Mbatha shine for Orlando Pirates again this season?
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