Danisa Masuku
Zimbabwe national team and Aston Villa FC star midfielder Marvelous Nakamba has heaped praise on a 15-year-old Zimbabwean midfielder based in England and has tipped him for greatness.
Menzi Maphosa (15) was born to Zimbabwean parents in England and he turns out for Birmingham City Football Club’s Under-15 side.
Nakamba, who has had the privilege to watch the starlet in action, said Menzi was a utility player who could play either as a holding midfielder or rightback.
Nakamba said Menzi embodies qualities of a football player who is hard to ignore.
“The lad stays at the place where I stay and I have watched him on countless occasions turning out for his team. He has the potential to be a great player, he has positive attitude towards his coaches and has that flair that makes him to be always in the starting line-up. Moreover, Menzi is one youngster who is hungry for success — this is showed by the commitment and determination during the game,” said Nakamba.
Nakamba, who has a close relationship with the starlet’s parents, said Menzi has a personal football trainer who helps him in sharpening his tactical skills.
“His parents hired a personal football trainer to help in him sharpening his footballing skills and also turning his weaknesses into strengths. From the training regimes he goes though under his personal trainer and of course coaches, he is now an accurate passer and also good ball distributer,” said Nakamba.
Nakamba believes the starlet could play for the Zimbabwe national team.
“Given that Menzi is eligible to play for both Zimbabwe and England, there is no doubt that if he is given the chance in the Under-17 Warriors or England national team juniors he could add value,” he said.
Speaking to B-Metro Menzi poured out his heart saying he was inspired by Nakamba and Chelsea’s N’golo Kante.
“I’m a great fan of Marve because when it comes to football he has taught me a lot of things. He taught me to be disciplined, committed and keep on improving my type of play. I also love Kante’s brand of play and I see myself following in his footprints,” Menzi said.
Menzi juggles both his academic life and football career in equal measure.
“I am doing Year-10 and at the same time pursuing my football career. I have crafted a timetable that I religiously follow. My parents are so supportive and they have engaged a personal tutor to help me in my studies,” he said.