How Kaizer Chiefs' Siphesihle Ndlovu was changed from 'lazy old Sunday League player' to 'rare breed with all the attributes'

Midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu is among the six new players who have been signed by Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the new season.

The 28-year-old was brought in from a now-defunct SuperSport United a couple of weeks ago to probably fill the gap of former club captain Yusuf Maart, who left for a better deal abroad.

Ndlovu has been influential at SuperSport United despite their struggles on and off the pitch.

For instance, last season he played 30 games for the Swanky Boys across all competitions with a return of two goals and as many assists.

His development coach, Andile Cele, who is currently the AmaZulu Youth team's tactician, has revealed how he shaped the midfielder.

“I remember when he first came, he wanted to be like an old Sunday League player, pass and stand,” he told iDiski Times.

“Then I remember having a chat with him. I said, 'You boy, you have an ability to also run with the ball, and also drive with the ball forward. So don’t act lazy. 

"Work, like your age, still allows you to do more, rather than just giving passes, standing as if you are towards your retirement. So, he listened, and then from there became a very changed player. He was very attentive to instructions," Cele continued.

“We knew that he was destined for greatness. So, whatever is coming his way, I’m not surprised. 

"Special player, disciplined, a rare breed, he has all the attributes.

“He fits all the factors of performance. You talk about your socially well-behaved, physically well-maintained, tactically coachable, and technically superior," Cele concluded.

In the past, some good players have struggled to deliver at Amakhosi, despite their exploits with former clubs.

Amakhosi faithful hope it will not be the same with Ndlovu, who made an impressive debut in the Toyota Cup fixture against Asante Kotoko on Saturday, July 26.