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Mngqithi's warning to Mahlambi: ‘Players must take responsibility’

Mahlatse Mphahlele Sports reporter
Phakamani Mahlambi is struggling for game time on loan at AmaZulu from Mamelodi Sundowns.
Phakamani Mahlambi is struggling for game time on loan at AmaZulu from Mamelodi Sundowns.
Image: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi has warned attacking midfielder Phakamani Mahlambi to take charge of his career as he struggles to nail down a place at AmaZulu.

The 23-year-old Malambi‚ who has well documented history of off-field problems‚ was sent to AmaZulu on loan from Sundowns in December but has only made two appearances for Usuthu.

In the 12 matches AmaZulu have played while he has been in Durban‚ Mahlambi has seen 59 minutes of play and made the bench on two occasions‚ but the club has not explained why he is missing in action.

“It’s his career and he knows what he has to do for his career‚” said a reluctant Mngqithi‚ who initially did not want to comment on the matter of the player loaned out from his club.

“We tried our best as well to help him here at Sundowns.

"He is a very talented player‚ we know what he can offer but I think at times players must take full responsibility for their careers.”

Mahlambi first appeared as a teen prodigy at Bidvest Wits‚ being billed as the next big attacker in South African football.

At 23‚ while he has battled his share of injuries in stints at Al Ahly in Egypt and Sundowns‚ the player is battling to fulfil his early promise.