Despite heavy speculation that Josta Dladla would be leaving Kaizer Chiefs at the end of the 2012/13 campaign, the club have announced late on Wednesday that the 33-year-old midfielder has signed a one-year extension on his contract.
The Soweto, Meadowlands-born player joined Chiefs in 2009 and has played 118 games for the Glamour Boys.
During the 2012/13 league season he was not as prominent as he would have liked, only featuring in 17 league games, eight of those appearances coming off the bench, hence the speculation surrounding his departure from the club.
Kaizer Chiefs Football Manager Bobby Motaung, however, has confirmed on their official website that Dladla will be staying at the club for another year.
“We are happy to have Josta remaining on board. The Coach will utilise him as a utility player and his experience will still be invaluable in what is going to be a tough season of defending the league title. We would like to wish him luck in the season ahead,” said Motaung.
‘JD’, as he is affectionately known by the fans, has also expressed his delight in signing a new deal with the club.
“I am excited with the contract extension and looking forward to the start of the 2013/14 season. I just want to thank the club for believing in me and that I can still make a contribution in the success of the team going forward,” said Dladla.
Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs will clash on July 27, with the title of 2013 Carling Black Label Cup champions up for grabs.
Check the voting on your favourite teams on the Carling Black Label website here!