Returning Makgantai eyes Zebras recall
Koketso Kgoboge | Tuesday January 30, 2018 16:50
After a lengthy lay-off, Makgantai is now looking to bounce back to the national team. The ‘Major 1’ spent one season at Democratic Republic of Congo’s AS Vita but faced challenges in his bid to return to Orapa, leading to a drawn-out transfer saga.
The Ostriches failed to secure his international clearance before the start of the season, which meant he spent the first round of the campaign on the touchline.
His clearance was finalised on Friday moments before kickoff. The match sheet that had already been drafted had to be ammended and the player’s much-awaited return was granted.
He played 75 minutes against the Reds and showed glimpses of his best, whipping in a few crosses from the right into the danger zone. However, he missed a scoring chance when he escaped his marker moments before he was substituted.
“I don’t know why this (transfer complications) had to happen but I have been patient although I must say, it has been very stressful,” Makgantai said after the game.
“I am happy to be back.” “Physically I feel fully fit, I had not stopped training. I am only lacking in match fitness, but I will get back to my best very soon. I am thankful to Orapa United for taking care of my welfare and treating me just like other players.” The 23-year-old said he enjoyed his time in DRC despite the brief spell.
He said Vita treated him well, the only challenge being lack of game time. He said he still wants to play outside the country, with South Africa as his preferred destination.
“I lost my place in the squad (Zebras) and my focus is to win my position back. The national team is the best marketing tool for players. My long term goal is to find a club outside the country particularly in the ABSA Premiership.”