Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr has outlined why the club decided to extend Sifiso Hlanti’s contract.
On Friday, Chiefs confirmed that Hlanti penned a contract extension of one year with an option for another year.
The former Bafana Bafana international joined Amakhosi in 2021 from Swallows. His contract at Chiefs had expired at the end of the 2022/23 season, but the club has moved swiftly to offer him a new deal.
The 33-year-old has been an integral part of Chiefs since his arrival. However, because he is injury-prone, the club wants to manage him well, given his experience.
He made 30 appearances in all competitions this past season, chipping in with two goals.
OTHER SOCCER NEWS:The conditions for Hlanti’s possible contract extension at Chiefs
KAIZER MOTAUNG JR ON HLANTI’S IMPORTANCE TO CHIEFS
“Kaizer Chiefs are pleased to announce that full-back Sifiso Hlanti has signed a one-year contract extension, with an option for a further year thereafter,” reads the club statement.
“The player, who hails from Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal, came back very strongly after
recovering from a potentially career-threatening injury in 2021/22 and was an integral component of Amakhosi’s defensive unit last season.”
Kaizer jr went on to state that the Glamour Boys saw fit to exercise the option to extend Hlanti’s stay as the defender has a lot of experience and knowledge.
“We are happy that we have agreed on this contract extension with Sifiso.,” said Kaizer Jr.”
“He is an important member of the team, given his experience and ability. We look forward to his continued hard work and sharing of his knowledge with the young players we have in the team.”
Hlanti has earned 25 Bafana Bafana caps and featured at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, where he played a vital role as the national team reached the quarter-finals.
At club level, Hlanti has had stints at Bidvest Wits, Golden Arrows, Chippa United and AmaZulu. He won the league with Wits and the Telkom Knockout.