MAMELODI Sundowns rising star Motjeka Madisha has vowed to double his efforts with the Brazilians in the upcoming 2017-18 season.
The 22-year-old central defender was thrown into the deep end by coach Pitso “Jingles” Mosimane and handled his promotion to the first team with aplomb.
Madisha, who captained the MultiChoice Diski (MDC) team that won the title last season, says he wants to continue where he left off.
Said Madisha: “It was a tough season for me, and when I thought I was ready for the first team, the coach took me back to the MDC team.”
But Madisha was eventually promoted to the first team and given a chance to show his mettle.
“I’m grateful to coach Mosimane and, being a young player at such a big club, I just want to cement my place in the starting line-up.”
According to Madisha, he’d learnt a lot from experienced defenders Ricardo Nascimento and Wayne Arendse.
And although willing to work very hard, the defender anticipated an even tougher season.
Madisha said scoring his only goal against Free State Stars was the biggest highlight of his career. Looking ahead, his biggest goal for next season was to hold on to his place in the starting line-up.
“I’m not worried about a call-up to Bafana Bafana because I want to establish myself first at Sundowns,” Madisha said.
“Through hard work, I know I’ll make it to the senior national team.”
Locally, he looks up to his teammate Nascimento. Abroad, he’s inspired by Uefa Champions League winning defender Raphael Verane of Spanish giants Real Madrid.
Madisha said playing in the Caf Champions League campaign with the defending champions had helped improve his game.
He was nominated for the PSL young player of the year award won by Bidvest Wits youngster, Phakamani Mahlambi.
Said Madisha: “I still have to improve here and there next season. African football has exposed me to different challenges and helped improve my aggression and technique as a defender.”
