With a former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper set for an early retirement as confirmed by his coach, the number of players from Mzansi's top-flight who are being forced into early retirement is growing and concerning.
Following Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila's 1-0 victory over Chippa United last weekend which ultimately sealed their Nedbank Cup triumph, the club's head coach Dylan Kerr revealed that the team's goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo's career could be halted prematurely.
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Kerr confirmed that Mhlongo injured his eye in training, and that he may have to end his playing career at the conclusion of this season. This is due to being left partially blind after being hit hard by the ball in his face.
The shot-stopper has since been advised by doctors to retire from the game.
Mhlongo joins fellow former goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo and ex-Pirates and Bafana Bafana defender Siyabonga Sangweni, among players who were forced into early retirement from the game due to injury.
View the gallery of some players who were forced to retire early due to injury.
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Mhlongo is one of the players who stayed with TTM following the purchase of Bidvest Wits last year.
His professional career started at Pirates in 2011 and has played for Chippa United in Mzansi's top-flight.
He has previously also played for Garankuwa United and FC AK in the second tier.
View 22 players you may have forgotten played for Orlando Pirates:
