Having started a training spell with Kaizer Chiefs this week, questions have been raised about Amakhosi's latest trialist Bradley Cross.
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Soccer Laduma takes a closer look at the former Newcastle United defender and what he could potentially bring to Naturena.
Playing style
When he signed for Newcastle reserves in October 2020, Cross described himself as a ball-playing centre-back.
"I'm a left footed centre-back that loves playing football. I like when the ball is at my feet and love playing out from the back, looking for those window passes to break the lines. I want to help the team out as much as possible and just leave all I have out there on the pitch, giving 100 per cent for every game and training session.
At 1.83m tall, Cross is not the tallest centre-back around; however, he does possess aerial prowess from his time in junior football.
International experience
Cross is a product of the Bidvest Wits academy. After spending two seasons on loan at Bundesliga side FC Schalke 04 from the now-defunct Bidvest Wits for two years, the player was snapped up by Newcastle United's under-23 squad after completing a successful trial with the Magpies.
He has featured in the UEFA Youth League as well as the Premier League 2.
He also spent a large amount of time training with the Newcastle first team, although he never made an official appearance in the Premier League.
Contract Status
The South African defender was released by Newcastle United Released in June this year having spent two years with the club's reserves. As things stand, he is currently a free agent and is free to join a team of his choice not bound by the transfer window.
He had a brief training spell with SuperSport United, although indications are that coach Gavin Hunt passed up on the opportunity to bring him on board.
What his possible addition could mean for Chiefs
As things stand, Chiefs have two natural left-footed centre backs in Edmilson Dove who has been the first choice for Zwane this season, as well as Austin Dube who has seen very little in terms of game-time this season.
Should Amakhosi opt for Cross, it could signal the end of Dube's time at Naturena. The 21-year-old could provide cover for Dove, who can also play at left-back, should Sifiso Hlanti pick up any niggles.
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