Kaizer Chiefs new sensation, Sakhile ‘Last Born’ Hlongwa insisted during his interview with kaizerchiefs.com that he is not worried about his age ahead of the 2012/2013 season.
The Umlazi-born striker aged 17 join an illustrious list of strikers born in KwaZulu-Natal that have played for the Glamour Boys. The likes of Michael Dlamini, Samora Khulu, Fani Madida and Siyabonga Nomvethe arrived at Kaizer Chiefs as lesser known before becoming household names in the gold and black kit.
How did your move to Chiefs happen?
Sakhile Hlongwa:
I had just played for Ethekwini Coastals against Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup when my Manager told me that he has arranged trials for me at Kaizer Chiefs. I trained with the Club for few weeks before signing a three year deal. I am very excited to have signed for one of the biggest teams in the country.
How important was it for you to train with the Club towards the end of last season?
Sakhile Hlongwa:
It helped me a lot as during those weeks I got to familiarise myself with my teammates and the Chiefs way of doing things. I am comfortable with all the guys and this helped a lot during preseason.
At 17 are you not intimidated to be wearing the gold and black?
Sakhile Hlongwa:
(Smiling) No not at all. I am just excited with the challenge of playing for Kaizer Chiefs. I am also not worried about life in Johannesburg as I come from a very strict family. I know what is expected of me and I have full support of my family. They call me everyday in the morning and in the evening to check up on me. My older sister Phumelele is also very supportive. It also helps that at some stage I stayed at Sibizo Football Academy away from my family.
How is it like to work with Coach, Stuart Baxter?
Sakhile Hlongwa:
I did not have an idea he was such a good Coach. He has been brilliant and I am learning a lot from him every day. I have no doubt that under his guidance my game will develop tremendously. We are all happy with his training methods and we are very excited to be working with him.
Who are the funniest guys at camp?
Sakhile Hlongwa:
(Laughing) it has to be Sthe (Sthembiso Ngcobo) and Itu (Itumeleng Khune).
Which team do you follow overseas?
Sakhile Hlongwa:
I am a big Barcelona fan. I like the way they play and make everything look easy. I think they will once again be a team to beat in Europe this season.
What are your immediate goals at Chiefs?
Sakhile Hlongwa:
I want to make the supporters happy and also win trophies.