Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Nkosingiphile Ngcobo has been encouraged to consider a move away from Naturena, with former Mamelodi Sundowns captain Hlompho Kekana questioning whether the midfielder can fulfil his potential at Amakhosi.
Ngcobo, 26, was reportedly close to leaving Chiefs on transfer deadline day, but the move could not be completed before the window closed.
The academy graduate therefore remains at the club, despite his limited involvement in recent seasons.
Ngcobo’s lack of regular football a concern
Ngcobo has struggled to establish himself as a consistent first-team player at Chiefs.
The midfielder has made just one appearance this season, according to the club’s player records, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his future under coach Fernando da Cruz.
Kekana believes Ngcobo possesses the technical qualities required to make a significant impact, but says the time has come for the midfielder to turn that potential into regular performances.
‘You can’t have potential forever’
Speaking on Soccer Zone, Kekana argued that Ngcobo needs to move beyond being described as a promising player.
“I think we can agree that in football you can’t have potential forever. You must reach a stage where you are a player where a team or teams can rely on,” Kekana said.
The former Bafana Bafana midfielder believes Ngcobo has the attributes of an effective attacking midfielder.
“He’s one of the best players that we have in terms of creating moments.”
Kekana also highlighted Ngcobo’s passing, finishing and technical ability, qualities that have seen him highly rated since his days in the Chiefs academy.
Kekana identifies work rate as an issue
While praising Ngcobo’s ability, Kekana believes the midfielder’s work rate needs to improve if he is to become a regular at the highest level.
He also pointed to Ngcobo’s limited number of appearances over recent seasons as evidence that his career has not progressed as expected.
According to Kekana, Ngcobo has played 55 matches over the past four seasons, averaging roughly 13 appearances per campaign.
For a player of his ability, Kekana believes that level of involvement is not enough.
Could a move away from Naturena help?
Ngcobo’s failed deadline-day transfer means he remains a Chiefs player for now.
However, a change of environment could potentially give him the opportunity to play more regularly and rebuild momentum in his career.
At 26, Ngcobo is no longer an emerging academy prospect. His next move could therefore be important in determining whether he can finally establish himself as a consistent senior player.
For Chiefs, the decision will be whether Ngcobo can still become part of their long-term plans or whether allowing him to pursue regular football elsewhere would be the better option.
Kaizer Chiefs transfer activity
Chiefs made several changes to their squad during the transfer window.
IN: Thabo Moloisane, Renaldo Leaner, Adolf Bitegeko Mtasingwa, Khanyisa Mayo, Langelihle Phili and Faiz Abrahams.
OUT: Thabo Cele, Gastón Sirino, Aden McCarthy, Glody Makabi Lilepo, George Matlou, Happy Mashiane, Given Msimango, Gopolang Taunyane, Ashley du Preez and Tashreeq Morris.
LOANS: Siyabonga Gumede to Richards Bay FC; Fiacre Ntwari to Kruger United; Xolani Cossa and Sfiso Timba to Gomora FC; Ofentse Kgosana and Vicky Mkhawana to Real Natives; and Pheko Phago, Samkelo Zwane, Bontle Molefe and Naledi Hlongwane to Hope FC.
The question now is whether Ngcobo can force his way back into the Chiefs setup — or whether his next chapter will have to begin elsewhere.
