Xulu up for the challenge as Team Of Choice captain

Bafana Bafana international Siyanda Xulu is up for the challenge that comes with the Maritzburg captain’s armband. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Bafana Bafana international Siyanda Xulu is up for the challenge that comes with the Maritzburg captain’s armband. Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Published Jul 19, 2018

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DURBAN – Siyanda Xulu is ready to lead Maritzburg United to greater heights following the departure of former skipper Bevan Fransman.

The Team of Choice last term finished fourth and reached two cup semi-finals, which included defeat against Free State Stars in the Nedbank Cup finale.

Xulu was crowned the best defender in the league. The Bafana Bafana international is up for the challenge that comes with the captain’s armband.

“I’m very honoured (with the captaincy) and I was caught by surprise because I haven’t been here for long. I’m very proud of what the team achieved last season and I’m looking forward to the new journey which is myself leading the club to greater things. Hopefully we will work together and achieve even more,“ Xulu said.

Xulu revived his career after a turbulent spell at Kaizer Chiefs, and captained Bafana at the Cosafa Cup in Limpopo.

He will be under pressure to replicate the displays of last season. “I’ve dealt with pressure before. I’ve played for bigger clubs at a very young age,” a confident Xulu stated.

Siyanda Xulu (left) will take over from Bevan Fransman (right) at Maritzburg United. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

United coach Fadlu Davids showed faith in Xulu following his unsuccessful spell with Amakhosi.

“Credit must go to the coach for the belief he has in me. I haven’t reached my full potential. I know I can do even more. It is just the beginning of the journey for me. Winning the Defender of the Season should inspire me to do more,” a determined Xulu said.

“It is not going to be easy. Looking at what we achieved last season, we need to elevate. I don’t want to put ourselves under pressure but I think silverware will do it for us. We’ve played in the final. We want to maintain our top four position and one silverware will do it for the club,” he added.

The skilful defender is determined to receive more Bafana call-ups.

“When I joined Maritzburg it was all about pressing the restart button. I treated my Bafana call up as my first call up. I really enjoyed it and there’s more to it. I think I will get even more. Obviously it comes with my good displays,” Xulu elaborated.

@Minenhlecr7

The Mercury

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