Former Orlando Pirates and Platinum Stars midfielder Joseph Malongoane is not discouraged by his Kaizer Chiefs departure as he understands the club is a business.

The 32-year-old endured a few hard years at Amakhosi as he was hit with numerous serious injuries.

He first broke an ankle in August during MTN8 quarter-final clash against Free State Stars. Then, upon his return to full fitness last year, Malongoane’s injury recurred, which forced him to go under the knife for surgery to his lower right leg.

Following his persistent injuries and extremely limited game time, Amakhosi confirmed that they have released the midfielder after he managed to feature in just two games for Chiefs over the past two seasons.

‘I have beautiful memories with Chiefs but at the end of the day, you have to understand that’s a business,’ Malongoane told City Press.

‘I took this on the chin like a man and accepted it. I am a soldier and I’ll bounce back.

‘And let’s be realistic, my time at Chiefs would have ended at some point and it happened on Tuesday [30 June].

‘I would have loved to be there for more years but I respect their decision.’

‘I’ll to thank them for the messages of support; that’s what pushes me ahead and keeps me strong,’ he added.

‘I will keep training, be ready and wait for a call but people must understand I am 100% OK and healthy – and I am free of Covid-19. The lockdown has helped me a lot in terms of full rehabilitation. I am 100% now.

‘I was doing everything with the team [in terms of virtual training]. I am ready for a new chapter in my life.’

‘Maybe I am strong but I just put in the hard work and follow the doctor’s orders. That’s all. Even now, I am 100% fine – it’s just a matter of getting a new job and doing what I like best, which is playing football.’