Brighton Mhlongo focusing on Chippa United

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Thursday Feb 22, 2018. 14:30

Chippa United goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo says he is focusing on his job with the club and revealed that his move from Orlando Pirates to the Chilli Boys came as a shock.

The Soweto-born net minder was loaned out to the Port Elizabeth-based side after struggling in the 2016/17 Premier Soccer League campaign.

With Mhlongo as a regular keeper at Pirates, the Buccaneers failed to reach the top eight for the first time in their PSL history.

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“Obviously it came as a surprise, but I had a chat with the chairman [Irvin Khoza]. He showed me the pros and cons of everything that has been happening,” said Mhlongo to KickOff.com.

“I am still grateful for the support he showed me and I know I will always be part of them.

“Yes, the move was a surprise, but at the same time I took it as a blessing in disguise to say I need to start all over again and rediscover myself and just showcase my God-given talent.

“It’s a loan deal. At the end of the season, by law, I need to go back to my mother club. Right now my job is to do well for Chippa United.

“I would love to focus on getting game-time and to repay the faith both chairmen [Chippa Mpengesi and Khoza] have shown in me. I need to keep working hard and the rest will follow."

Currently changing roles with Nigerian international Daniel Akpeyi, Mhlongo will hope to be in the starting line-up when they host Pirates on Sunday.

The Absa Premiership clash will be staged at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Sunday 15:30 (CAT).