Despite his advanced age in professional football terms, Themba Zwane remains a key player for both club and country.

At 35 years old, Zwane, or Mshishi as he is affectionately known by fans, is so important to the cause of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana that his absence leaves a gaping hole in both teams.

While Sundowns have continued to win football games domestically and on the continent as Zwane recovers from a long-term injury, they have not been as devastating. Those 4-0 and 3-0 victories that were a hallmark of the club’s performances have been replaced by narrow 1-0 or 2-1 win.

It’s not been as smooth sailing for the undisputed kings of South African football.

And on the international stage, Bafana Bafana head coach has spoken time-and-time again about the need to find a replacement for Zwane, who must be approaching the twilight years of his career.

Bafana coach Hugo Broos has often looked to Orlando Pirates’ Patrick Maswanganyi to fill Zwane’s massive shoes. “Tito”, though, has not managed to get going and stake a claim to the position, and his recent struggles has many doubting whether he is the man for the job.

Enter Jayden Adams. The Stellenbosch FC playmaker is reportedly on the verge of completing a big move to Sundowns, where he is seen as key to the Brazilian’s future plans. At just 23 years old, Adams’ career is in its infancy, and for him, the sky is the limit. Pun intended.

In the maroon of Stellies last season, Adams's ability to unlock defences was important as the team finished third in the league and qualified for continental football for the first time. His three goals and eight assists in all competitions last season is proof that he is set to take the local game by storm. So far this season, he has contributed three goals to the Stellenbosch cause.

With better players playing alongside him, and playing in a system that favours attack-minded footballers, he could start having a bigger impact for both club and country. And he will only learn and get better by completing for a place and playing alongside the likes of Teboho Mokoena, Lucas Ribeiro and Marcelo Allende.

In Adams, Sundowns have found the perfect player to fill Zwane’s massive shoes. If he thrives in the colours of Sundowns, it will only be a matter of time before Broos trusts him to get Bafana Bafana ticking as they look to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America.

IOL Sport

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COMMENT | Jayden Adams: The heir to Themba Zwane's throne at Sundowns and Bafana Bafana