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Sekhukhune United captain Linda Mntambo says his year on the sidelines through injury brought some anxiety but is grateful for the support he received from all corners.
The 34-year-old started his first game in over a year and went on to score last week in the 3-1 win over Richards Bay before starting again in the Nedbank Cup as they beat Highlands Park 5-4 on penalties.
It proved to be an emotional week for the former Orlando Pirates midfielder whose career was in doubt at one point, but he admits he’s got a long road to get back to full fitness – after overcoming his set-back of 2023.
“I am grateful to be back after a long layoff, confidence-wise, and baby steps, [I] still need to work on match fitness and getting my groove back, I think it’s game by game, trying to improve in every game I play,” Mntambo said.
“It was never going to be easy [my first game back], I was anxious in camp going into the game, but I knew that with all the training I’ve been doing, what the coaches have been doing to help me, I just need to follow instructions.
“With the help of my teammates also, I wouldn’t have had too easy without their help on the day, they’ve supported me well, the medical team have been helping to make me come back strong, and my family as well – friends have shown support to make it easy for me after a long lay off, I just needed to get on the pitch and do what I do best.”
Mntambo’s side, who finished runners-up of the competition last season, drew AmaZulu in the last 16 on Monday evening.