Zwane Hammers Radebe: He Can’t See His Talent
AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane has expressed frustration over the inconsistency of defender Nkosikhona Radebe, describing him as a rare talent who has yet to fully recognise his own potential.
Radebe is one of AmaZulu’s most trusted players, having featured in every league match this season alongside Sandile Mthethwa.
The 24-year-old from Ntuzuma delivered another impressive performance this past weekend as Usuthu climbed to fifth in the Betway Premiership following their victory over Siwelele FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
However, Zwane — who brought Radebe to AmaZulu from TS Galaxy last season — is frustrated that the player possesses all the qualities needed to excel but doesn’t seem to realise it, which he admits drives him “mad.”
“Whenever Nkosi applies himself properly, he shows his quality, and we stand a good chance of winning any game,” said Zwane.
“But trust me, when Nkosi is not okay, it affects us big time as a team. His explosiveness, his decision-making — when he’s on song, anything can happen at any moment.
“He’s got rare talent, and a lot of people don’t see it. It’s up to him to grow. He mustn’t blow hot and cold; we need consistency.”
Zwane added that if Radebe can find that consistency, he has the potential to become one of the best players in the country — even earning a place in the Bafana Bafana squad.
“He can be something else,” Zwane continued.
“He is very explosive. He runs with the ball at high speed and can easily eliminate opponents. He reminds me of players who could defend effortlessly with no one getting past them.
“So, we want him to be consistent — nothing else. If he can play like this for the rest of the season, trust me, he stands a very good chance of becoming one of the top players in this country.
“But if he keeps blowing hot and cold — looking promising today and struggling in the next game — then it’s a problem. I fight with him every day because I see his potential. I see that he can be something else, something special.
“And sometimes people don’t understand when I push him. They think the coach is too harsh. But those who are talented, those who have something special that others don’t, I will be harsh on them.
“Because they can take their careers to another level. They can be good examples in the future and help others realise their dreams. We need more youngsters to change their lives.
“They shouldn’t play football for fun or just to pass time — this is a profession. They need to focus entirely on football. If they are still at school, then it’s simple: go to school and play football. Those are the two priorities.
“You can’t tell me you are struggling to do two things.”
