Ex-Kaizer Chiefs & Orlando Pirates star Buthelezi likens Bafana Bafana's Themba Zwane to France legend Zinedine Zidane - 'They have similarities, they are excellent'

Themba Zwane has established himself as a key Bafana Bafana player.

This comes as he was initially ignored by coach Hugo Broos in his early days as South Africa's coach.

Linda Buthelezi, one of the few players who has turned out for Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, has his say on Zwane's capabilities, likening him to a France legend.

“Themba Zwane is a typical South African who can be utilised in any situation," Buthelezi told FARPost.

"You guys always talk about France legend Zinedine Zinedine. Zinedine is not far from Themba Zwane.

“They have similarities; they turn here, they are clever, they are excellent. Themba Zwane is a darling to me and South African football, and he is a disciplinarian."

Zwane gained Broos' trust after initially being snubbed for Bafana duty when the Belgian arrived in South Africa.

But he is now a key South Africa player and has risen to be the team's vice-captain after Ronwen Willaims and Percy Tau.

At 35, Zwane has defied Broos' preference for younger players and has been providing experience in the Bafabna setup.

The Masandawana star got injured during Bafana's away assignment at Congo-Brazzaville.

The gravity of his injury suggests he could miss Bafana's November matches against Uganda and South Sudan.