Banyana Banyana midfielder Linda Motlhalo has extended her stay in Sweden after signing a two year contract with Djurgarden IF.
The former South African U20 captain joined the side two years ago after spells in the USA (Houston Dash) and China (Beijing BG Phoenix FC).
“I am very happy that I have signed a new contract with this club. I have developed very well as a player here. I am enjoying the environment and the players two,” said Motlhalo speaking on her YouTube page.
Coming from a sunny South Africa, many had expected the Randfontein-raised Motlhalo not to survive the harsh cold conditions of the Nordic countries.
“Yes, it is cold here, but you need to adjust as a player. And like I said I enjoy being here – so what’s left is for me to adjust and carry on,” added Motlhalo.
“The first few months were really hard because I was new, and I didn’t know the style of play. But as time went on, I was able to learn from other players and coaches, and it became easy for me as I asked a lot of questions. I have now developed a lot as a player, bearing in mind that I have been thrown into different positions and was able to perform.”
The South African is back in Sweden after the winter break.
They have been taken through their paces during pre-season training.
Djurgarden lost five of their last games in 2021 before the recess. They kickstart the new year with a clash against Linköpings FC next month.
And she is confident of success in 2022.
“We have a lot of new players, and I think it is going to be a good season because our first training session was very intense, and we got to gel as players. So I am really looking forward to the new season,” concluded the midfielder.
“I feel like I have contributed a lot when it comes to team performance, whereas as individual I believe I need to improve a lot. This year I need to score a lot of goals. Like I said, I have contributed a lot as a team player, and now I need to focus on myself.”
Motlhalo is not the first South African to be on the books of Djurgarden – both male and female sides.
Amazulu assistant coach Siyabonga Nomvete, former Orlando Pirates midfielder Mark Mayambela, ex-Ajax Cape Town anchorman, Lance Davids as well as former Banyana Banyana midfielder Stephanie Malherbe all wore the colours of the Swedish side.
By Matlhomola Morake
