KwaZulu-Natal’s Milford has bolstered its squad with the addition of veteran midfielder Lefa Hlongwane from Leruma United in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

The 31-year-old midfielder played for Leruma United at the beginning of the season, making 12 appearances, including one in the Nedbank Cup in the preliminary stages.

Hlongwane is the fourth signing for the Stallions during this January transfer window, following the arrivals of Thabang Thopola, Faud Johnson, Sandile Mathumbu, and the experienced Thobani Mncwango.

Hlongwane, who has also represented Jomo Cosmos, Black Leopards, TS Galaxy, and Marumo Gallants, has had a challenging career. He was dismissed by Maritzburg United (now Durban City) in the 2021/22 season for allegedly arriving at training under the influence of alcohol.

Last season, he was released by Baroka FC in April 2023/24, along with Maneke Mehlape and Masilake Pohlongo, by then-coach Dan Malesela.

This will be the third time Hlongwane has played for a KwaZulu-Natal-based club, having previously represented Royal Eagles for two seasons from 2014/15 to 2015/16.

Hlongwane joins a Milford side currently occupying fourth place in the Motsepe Foundation Championship with 24 points from 14 matches.

On Sunday, the Stallions will commence their new year with a match against the University of Pretoria at ABSA Tuks Stadium.