JOHANNESBURG — Newly-signed SuperSport United striker Kingston Nkhatha says he turned his back on Kaizer Chiefs because they took too long to offer him a new contract.
“Chiefs have done good things for me,” Nkhatha said yesterday.
“When I was booed by the supporters, the management was there to assure me that this would pass and I needed to stay strong.
“I really didn’t want to leave Chiefs, but when the news of a contract was not coming up and United showed all the signs of wanting me, I knew I had to make a move.”
Nkhatha’s contract with the log leaders was set to expire in May and, in a surprise move, he signed a pre-season contract with United.
Chiefs went on to accuse the 29-year-old of signing with the Tshwane side behind their backs. However, they then reached an agreement with Matsatsantsa last week to have the Zimbabwean shipped out with immediate effect.
Having been a starter for Chiefs in most of their matches, Nkhatha was a little startled when he was told to leave his old club in the middle of the season.
“I was shocked to learn that I could join United with immediate effect,” he said.
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“I really didn’t think that things could go so sour in a team where I gave my all – but this is football.”
Nkhatha said he had been given no guarantees from Chiefs that they would make him a new offer and he had to secure his future.
“Sometimes one has to think about where one’s future lies and that is what I did,” he said.
“I am a family man. Chiefs will always be in my heart as they gave me the first taste of Absa Premier Soccer League (PSL) football.
“After careful considerations, I had to make a move that would benefit me as I am not getting any younger.”
Nkhatha held no grudges and felt happy for Chiefs who would surely go on to clinch the PSL title.
“The first round was special as we were unbeaten in the league,” he said.
“It was a team effort and I don’t see Sundowns catching up with Chiefs even though they have a game in hand.”
Meanwhile, Matsatsantsa had a poor first half of the season, closing the year out in 11th place.
Nkhatha looked forward to the challenge of helping United finish in the top eight by the end of the season.
“I want to win things with United and I know we will start doing well. I have been warmly received and I am waiting for the league to resume, itching for action.”
— Sapa
