By
AmaZulu midfielder Pule Ekstein says he is relishing the responsibility of being one of the senior figures in a squad that is increasingly being built around youth.
The 35-year-old recently reached a significant milestone, making his 100th appearance for Usuthu since joining the club in 2021, highlighting his importance within the KwaZulu-Natal outfit.
AmaZulu have made a deliberate shift this season by promoting younger players into the first team, as part of a long-term strategy to refresh the squad and secure the club’s future.
Speaking after the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 draw, Ekstein says the experienced players have welcomed the opportunity to guide and support the club’s emerging talent.
"We have disciplined youngsters, and they are willing to learn and grow. So, as senior players we play a huge role in helping coach Arthur and his assistants to show the youngsters the way."
AmaZulu head coach Arthur Zwane is determined to end the club’s lengthy trophy drought, identifying the Nedbank Cup as a realistic opportunity to deliver silverware for the Durban-based side.
Usuthu have shown encouraging form in the Betway Premiership this season, with Zwane’s leadership credited for improving structure and confidence within the squad.
Ekstein says Zwane’s background in youth development, combined with the presence of experienced players, has helped create a balanced environment that is driving the team forward.
"As we all know, coach Arthur has been working with youngsters since his development days at Kaizer Chiefs so it's not difficult for him at all to guide the youngsters. We just try and make it easier for him and easier for them so that the team can develop."
Ekstein says the squad is motivated to reward club president Sandile Zungu for his continued investment and support by competing strongly for honours this season.
He adds that winning a trophy would not only honour the club’s leadership but also give the players and supporters something meaningful to celebrate after years without major success.
"Like the president said, he wants the silverware, it doesn't matter which cup, he wants silverware. We are going to do that for him, for us and all the supporters."
AmaZulu’s pursuit of Nedbank Cup glory will see them face Richards Bay FC in a highly anticipated KwaZulu-Natal derby in the Round of 16.
The encounter is expected to be fiercely contested, with both sides eager to advance, and Ekstein believes matches of this nature bring extra intensity and excitement.
