Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sphelele Mkhulise wants to realise his dream of playing in Europe by following in the footsteps of Bafana Bafana international Percy Tau.

The 24-year-old has risen to the challenge at Sundowns over the past two seasons and enjoyed some game time with the first team in the current season. He has already scored three goals and assisted a further two from 23 appearances across all competitions.

The former Masandawana youth academy product also spent some time on loan in the National First Division (NFD) with Black Leopards and Richards Bay, respectively.

However, Mkhulise is determined to improve his development by conquering Africa before making a move to Europe as he aims to emulate the former Sundowns star Tau.

‘I think last season was all about learning for me. I thank the coaches and players for the lessons they gave me. I am happy with the progress that I made but still think there’s still a lot that I need to learn and work on – like my finishing,’ Mkhulise told IOL.

‘Playing in Africa is a bigger stage and every player’s dream. It’s a dream that I still want to explore more because you grow in every aspect of life.

‘Each and every year, I want to play in Africa. If I can conquer the continent then it will be easier for me to go and play in Europe and follow in the footsteps of players like Percy Tau [who is at Belgian side Club Brugge on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion].’