Kaizer Chiefs defender Sifiso Hlanti insists he is a team player and will not fret over who plays ahead of him.
Hlanti has seemingly lost his starting place to Edmilson Dove, who was on target in the 2-1 win over Sekhukhune United recently.
Last season, Hlanti had the starting place to himself as Dove often played at centre-back. Following the arrival of Given Msimango and Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Dove has been pushed to the left-back position.
Sifiso Hlanti, though, started the first couple of games as Dove was injured. But, since the Mozambican captain’s return to action, Hlanti has seen little action.
The former Bidvest Wits fullback has admitted that he could have done better in some areas, but he was also quick to point out that football is a team sport and that everyone shares the load.
“I didn’t start bad because this is a team sport,” Hlanti said. “It’s not a case of Hlanti or any player. For me, I think I started well. I contributed well even though I can still do better than I did in the previous… It’s a matter of stage and approaching things in a polite manner.”
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Hlanti also spoke about the importance of supporting his teammates, regardless of who is playing in a particular position.
“When it comes to being out of the pitch for a few weeks, at the same time, we share the load,” he said. “We’re all here to work. No one owns a position. Whoever comes, we need to give him support. Whoever is playing at that particular point in time, we need to give him support. We need to stick together because we’re all in the same circle.”
Hlanti’s attitude is refreshing to see, especially in a sport where individualism is often rewarded over teamwork. He is a valuable asset to the Kaizer Chiefs team, and his willingness to put the team first is sure to serve him well in the years to come. Chiefs welcome AmaZulu FC in the Carling Knockout Cup on Saturday at the FNB Stadium. They will be hoping to win it and progress in the newly formed competition.