Kaizer Chiefs captain Inacio Miguel has explained why he handed over the armband to Zitha Kwinika during a 1-0 Betway Premiership win over Richards Bay FC seven days ago.
The Soweto giants have had a perfect start to their season, winning three out of three, with the latest coming against Richards Bay at FNB Stadium last Wednesday, where Gaston Sirino found the winner.
However, more than a few eyebrows were raised when Miguel handed over the captain's armband to Kwinika, who was brought on in the 62nd minute for his first appearance of the campaign.
READ | Sundowns' plan for Mothiba outlined
The Angolan has since explained that it was not a decision imposed on him, but rather a show of respect to his teammate, who has also captained the juniors at Naturena.
Despite making just six appearances last season, the 31-year-old holds some level of seniority within the dressing room.
"I don’t say just for the interview, I feel it. I have no instruction to give the armband to Zitha, but I feel like he deserves it more than any player. He’s a fantastic human being.
"He’s a fantastic leader, as we are always searching for in the group. And I feel that, here, it is a moment where you have a big history in the club, and I respect that.
"I respect the fact that Zitha from the last season never dropped the level. He’s one of the players that we have to focus on because he’s a good example of what we want to be in the future.
"And for the young generation, I think they also have to look at it as a role model they’re looking for. They don’t need to go outside to look for a role model; there is Zitha. For me, he is a role model of a hard worker," he added.
READ: 'He is going far' - Chiefs' rising star praised
The former Petro de Luanda man also hailed Kwinika's consistency and presence 'in the bad moments, in the good moments'.
"I don’t know the squad for Wednesday, but I have no problem to say if Zitha will start the game, I will give him the armband, of course."
Chiefs face Mamelodi Sundowns in a blockbuster league fixture at FNB Stadium Wednesday (19:30).
Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images
