Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Lucas Ribeiro Costa has been backed for the footballer of the season, with the Brazilian currently playing a big role in the team.
Since joining Sundowns last season, Ribeiro has been an influential player for the Tshwane giants, but he's stepped up even more in the absence of captain Themba Zwane, who has been the heartbeat in attack for Sundowns.
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Ribeiro is currently the top scorer in the league with nine goals and is playing a big part with assists too. While there is still a lot of football to be played this season, football analyst and development coach Farouk Khan believes the 26-year-old attacker is in a good position to walk away with the biggest individual prize at the end of the season - the footballer of the season gong.
"Potential player of the season? He ticks the box. He definitely does, because he gives Sundowns that edge that they miss out on when Sirino left and when Zwane is injured. He fills that gap because you couldn't imagine Sundowns without Zwane. But he has done the job," Khan said to the Siya crew.
"This team is blessed with the quality. It's a pleasure for coaches who know what they are doing to coach a team like that."
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After being rested over the weekend as Sundowns beat Mphene Home Defenders 2-0 in the Nedbank Cup last 16 on Sunday, Ribeiro is expected to be back in the starting line-up this evening as the reigning champions take on Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein.
It's another opportunity for the left-footed player to enhance his chances of winning the prize at the end of the campaign.
