Kaizer Chiefs forward Langelihle Phili has been pictured wearing the number 70 shirt in training, prompting speculation that it could be his squad number following his move from Stellenbosch FC.
The 21-year-old completed a long-negotiated transfer to Kaizer Chiefs earlier this week and has already joined his new team-mates at Naturena. The attacker could now be involved when the Glamour Boys begin their MTN8 campaign against Golden Arrows on Sunday.
Kaizer Chiefs will host Golden Arrows in the MTN8 quarter-final at FNB Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.
Phili was seen at the Village wearing the number 70 jersey, although the club has not confirmed whether it will be his official number for the new season. The image was provided courtesy of Kaizer Chiefs.
The forward previously wore number 11 at Stellenbosch FC, but that shirt is already occupied by Luke Baartman at Chiefs. Phili will therefore need to use a different number after completing his move to the Soweto club.
His transfer formed part of a deal that saw Ashley du Preez and Given Msimango join Stellenbosch FC on permanent transfers.
If selected against Golden Arrows, Phili would have the opportunity to make his Kaizer Chiefs debut only days after finalising the move. His arrival comes at an important stage of the campaign, with Amakhosi preparing for their opening MTN8 fixture at home.
Phili has established significant senior experience despite his age. He has made 72 official appearances since breaking into professional football, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists.
Most of his goals came during the previous season. He played in 26 league matches and scored seven times, while his overall record for the campaign stood at 39 appearances and nine goals.
That form helped attract Kaizer Chiefs, who secured his services after negotiations with Stellenbosch FC. The attacker will now compete for a place in the Chiefs side as the club begins its MTN8 challenge.
The number 70 shirt could offer an early indication of how Phili’s career at Naturena will begin, but confirmation of his official squad number may follow later.
Kaizer Chiefs’ quarter-final against Golden Arrows takes place at FNB Stadium on Sunday evening, with the match starting at 18:00.
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