AmaZulu star Siyabonga Nomvethe announces retirement

AmaZulu star Siyabonga Nomvethe has announced that that he will call time on his career when his contract expires.

The former Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs hit man has been on the books of Usuthu ever since he departed Moroka Swallows in 2016, and he has continued to roll back the years with some stellar performances.

However, with Nomvethe turning 41 in December, he has now opted to hang up his boots as he looks to make way for the future crop of talented South African footballers.

“It’s time for the youngsters to take over. Football is about playing with the heart," Nomvethe said a press conference on Friday.

"I have done my part. I am very happy. It is time to say goodbye,” he added.

"Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way," he said.

“I have played all over the world. Scored in the World Cup. Won awards, but for me, the most important thing was to keep playing and enjoying football,” he expressed.

While Nomvethe has revealed his retirement plans, it isn’t goodbye just yet for the man affectionately known as ‘Bhele’, as the club having confirmed that he will still be up for selection until his contract runs out at the end of the year.

Furthermore, a testimonial match to say farewell to one of South Africa’s most iconic players is said to be in the works, according to AmaZulu general manager Lunga Sokhela.

“There are going to be many events that we will plan to give Bhele the send-off he deserves,” the AmaZulu boss suggested.  

Nomvethe’s football career has spanned the course of over two decades and has seen him ply his trade in Italy, for the likes of Udinese and Empoli among others. He has also represented his country at the Fifa World Cup in 2002.