Did Mamelodi Sundowns make a transfer blunder on Kobamelo Kodisang? Manqoba Mngqithi opens up on winger's struggles

Kobamelo Kodisang joined Mamelodi Sundowns from Portuguese Primeira Liga side Moreirense in July.

However, he has managed to make just four appearances across all competitions as he struggles to cement a regular place in the team.

Masandawana coach Manqoba Mngqithi has come out to defend the winger's struggle for game time.

"Kodisang? I think he's adapting quite well. It's just that it's a difficult environment," Mngqithi said as per KickOff.

"When he got a few opportunities, I was happy with him. We gave him an opportunity against Mbabane, and he scored and had an assist. We gave him a chance against Polokwane City and I think he played quite well. 

"I think he is close to really establishing himself in the PSL. He is a very good football player. We brought him because we know what he is capable of. 

"It's just that it's quite tough. Our environment is not very easy for players to break in and it's worse when we're playing these official matches that are challenging so much," added the Masandawana trainer.

"The good thing now is that he is finding himself in and around the matchday squad, which is very good. I am optimistic he is going to help us as the season progresses. 

"He's got a lot of good attributes as a player and we are hoping those attributes can help us when we need them the most."

Kodisang dumped Moreirense at a time when he was a regular for the club playing in the Portuguese top-flight league.

But he opted to come back to the Premier Soccer League where his chances of becoming a Bafana Bafana regular would be bright.

However, he has found it difficult to stake a claim in the Masandawana midfield.

With Sundowns known for rotating their squad especially when their fixtures start weighing heavy on players' fitness, that could be Kodisang's chance for regular football.

For now, he would be pushing to be handed some playing minutes when Masandawana clash with Kaizer Chiefs in a Carling Knockout semi-final match at FNB Stadium on Saturday.