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I CAN STILL PLAY FOR THREE SEASONS – WONDER

By Melusi Mlotsa | 2022-10-15

SOCCER - Age is nothing but a number! Mbabane Swallows veteran winger Wonder ‘Samba Jive’ Nhleko believes he has what it takes to play for another three seasons.

This, therefore means the player who is 41 years old this year, could hang up his boots during the 2026/27 season at the age of 44.

The former national team midfielder has broken many records since his arrival he elite league with the now defunct Gege Happy Stars, many seasons ago and he is confident he could still go on for a couple more years.

Instrumental
He was his team’s last minute charge for CAF Confederation Cup qualification helping them finish third missing out on the spot on the final day to Highlanders.

Nhleko said age is s till on his side ahead of the encounter against Denver Sundowns this evening. This was during a pre-match press conference at Sigwaca House yesterday.
“At the moment I can’t put a definite time when I will retire from playing as I feel like I can still contribute. I feel like I can still play for three seasons.

However, one must also take it into consideration that there could be other factors besides my age, like giving youngsters a chance,” he said.
Nhleko added that they had worked on their previous errors from the draw against Buffaloes in the first match and would go into the match looking to collect their first three points of the season after conceding a late goal.

Mbabane Swallows coach Musa Manyatsi predicted a tough match against Sundowns but said his players knew what was expected of them.
“We’re playing against a tough side that keeps the ball, so it won’t be an easy match.
“ We’ve done enough preparations and our mandate is to improve on our position from last year,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sundowns mentor Ikabort Masocha said they were not under pressure even though their former coach was leading the opposing team.

Pressure
“I wouldn’t say we are under pressure because the coach has been with the club before me, but it is an advantage for him.

“ However, we have prepared well and will be ready for the encounter having done all we have to,” he said. Denver Sundowns host Mbabane Swallows at Mavuso Sports Centre with kick-off slated for 8pm today.

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