Downs product Mkhuma “settled” at Swallows

Downs product Mkhuma “settled” at Swallows

Swallows FC haven’t yet made progress in attempts to have their FIFA sanction overturned, but striker Promise Mkhuma hopes to get his breakthrough with the Dube Birds.

The Mamelodi Sundowns academy graduate was on the verge of joining the Soweto outfit as a free agent four months ago until the transfer ban imposed on the club by world football’s governing body halted those plans. 

His agent, however, has told SABC Sport that the 22-year-old is “settled” and itching to get his career back on track. 

Swallows have been banned for two years by FIFA unless full payment is made to two former players – Vladimir Mandic and Obren Cuckovic.

The Serbian duo played for the club during the 2014/15 season under then owner Leon Prins before being relegated to the Premier Soccer League second tier that year. 

“That’s the problem, we are hoping that this will all be resolved over the next week or so and that he [Promise] can resume his career,” explained his agent Mike Makaab of Prosport International. 

“He’s settled in nicely at the club and they are happy with him. We are honestly hoping that the next six months will relaunch his career because he is a really talented player. We are holding hope that this will be the case [FIFA ban lifted].” 

Swallows have recently appointed Ernst Middendorp as coach on a three-year contract, and his record with young players could be the key to Mkhuma finally living up to expectation and the hype, argues Makaab.  

“I think Ernst Middendorp is a wonderful mentor when it comes to guiding young players. I am even more excited now that Ernst is at the club. I am just hoping that we can get the red tape sorted out so that Promise can resume his career,” the agent said.