Celtic extend Gaba’s contract

South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) outfit Bloemfontein Celtic have extended wonderkid Gabadinho Mhango’s contract.

The club’s Malawian team manager John Maduka said the 22-year-old forward’s five-star show in his debut season swayed Phunya Selesele who have extended his contract by two years.

“We already gave him the letter to that effect. He is not going anywhere. The boy is ours,” said Maduka in a telephone interview from South Africa on Thursday.

The former Flames captain said while Gabadinho was impressive in his maiden season, he has not yet reached his full potential.

“Being nominated for the Young Player of the Season Award by the PSL coupled with winning two club awards (Players’ Player of the Year and Rookie of the Season) is no mean feat. It speaks volumes of his capabilities,” said Maduka.

He said Gabadinho has the potential to scale lofty heights because he is disciplined and committed.

Gabadinho scored 10 goals in all competitions for Celtic this season.

Recently, Gabadinho told Celtic website that he was proud of his debut season and a bit humbled by all the attention. But the confident young man is promising a better return next season, which is bad news for PSL defenders.

“I am very happy to be rewarded this season and I feel humbled as well, but this just makes my target for next season even higher,” he said.