Image: AFP
Free State Stars striker Siphelele Mthembu is not concerned about what will happen to his career if he does not impress this season.
"I am not really scared of life," proclaimed Mthembu, who has been given a lifeline by Ea Lla Koto after being discarded by Kaizer Chiefs at the start of the season.
"Even if anything happens it would not worry me, and I don't want people to feel pity for me. It is only God who can say 'now, my son, it is enough'," Mthembu told Sowetan.
"So far, what I am concerned about is hard work, not what will happen next. I am grateful for the opportunity Free State Stars gave me and I am aware that I must repay their faith by scoring goals."
Since joining the Bethlehem-based outfit in August, the well-travelled 30-year-old striker has featured in seven games across all competitions, netting twice from the spot in the process.
"Scoring penalties builds my confidence, but what builds it more is when we win as a team."
Mthembu admits that being sidelined for nearly two years at Amakhosi is now taking its toll as he tries to regain his best form at Stars.
"When you have not played for a while, the body takes time to adjust again. I know I still have to dig deeper to return to full fitness."
Mthembu believes moving away from Gauteng to a tranquil Bethlehem will yield positive results for him.
"Bethlehem is a good environment for me as a spiritual guy," concludes Shaka Zulu.