Thandani Ntshumayelo may not have had the best of seasons at Orlando Pirates, but still remains one of the most important players for our team. It can be said that his indifferent season could be down to him adjusting to a new role in midfield, as he has been given the freedom to attack more often as opposed to the more defensive position he is accustomed to.

On the note of defending, he would no doubt have faced fellow teammate Thabo Rakhale a few times in training sessions.

In this week’s edition of Soccer Laduma, the midfielder let us in on how he felt his season has been going and also touched on the effect Rakhale has on the team.

When asked how many shibobos Rakhale had given him in training, Ntshumayelo said, “Ha ha none so far, hey! He’s one of the players I see using his skills at the right time. Even though he’s showboating, you are always sure that in one-on-one situations, he’s going to go past a man and then deliver a cross or take a shot at goal.”

On a more serious note, he explained why it is important to have players like Jomo in the local game, saying that such characters can lift the spirit of the team.

“We need players like that in South Africa because, even if the team is not playing well, by him just doing tricks, it can give us confidence to come out of our shells and play to our potential,” he added.

Reflecting on Bibo’s words, do you feel that skilful players can inspire others to produce their best?