Former Orlando Pirates left back, David Nyathi, believes that Patrick Phungwayo is an exceptional talent and one of the best left backs in South Africa. David says that the player is always a viable call-up for Bafana. For more from Nyathi, read on…
Soccer Laduma: Mr Nyathi, you have played at Orlando Pirates as a left back. What's your take on Patrick Phungwayo?
David Nyathi:You know, for me, when I look at the top three left backs in South Africa, Phungwayo is one of them. The other two are Thabo Matlaba and Tsepo Masilela. These three are the best in the country and I respect all three of them.
SL: Alright. Of the three, who do you think is the best?
DN:It's hard to separate them, but I think Masilela stands out because of his experience both locally and in Europe. Matlaba has also shown his talent. Phungwayo still has time on his side, which can help him develop into a great left back.
SL: What do you think the future holds for Phungwayo?
DN:He has a great future because he has exceptional talent. He has great potential because as, I have said, he has what it takes to make a great defender.
SL: In closing, what do you believe he should he do to improve his game?
DN:With age you will see talent coming through the player, though at times it is not always the way you would have expected. With him I believe that with age he will become a great left back. As a player who played in that position both at Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana, I know Phungwayo has a great future. He has to be patient and his time to shine will come.
SL: Thank you so much for your time, Mr Nyathi.
DN:Thank you, my brother.
