Njabulo Ngcobo could have followed the likes of Erick Mathoho and Austin Dube out of Kaizer Chiefs at the end of last season as his future was reportedly already decided. From being a PSL Defender of the Season while playing for Swallows FC (now Moroka Swallows), the big defender joined the Naturena-based side ahead of the 2021/22 campaign with so many expectations.
He had a decent first season under Gavin Hunt, making 15 league appearances. However, last season under Arthur Zwane, the Folweni-born star made just seven starts with four substitute appearances in the league and had moments where he appeared to be frustrated with his lack of regular game-time.
By the time the season ended, the likes of Mathoho and Dube already knew that they would be leaving, according to sources, while Ngcobo was also facing uncertainty regarding his future. Back then, Thatayaone Ditlhokwe and Given Msimango had already been identified as targets to add to Amakhosi's squad for the 2023/24 season.
When the coaching changes were made at as Molefi Ntseki replaced Zwane in the coaching hotseat, the 29-yearold was given a lifeline to finish his contract, as stated by sources.
"Njabulo Ngcobo could have left Chiefs at the end of last season and there were teams that were interested in him. He didn't play that much last season and clubs like AmaZulu FC and Richards FC Bay were keen on him," said a source.
"But after the coaching changes were made, the new coach decided he wanted to have him in the squad. That's what happened, otherwise the player could have left," the source concluded.
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