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Dino Ndlovu has allayed fears about his safety as the coronavirus, which started in China where he plies his trade, continues to spread. Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, is about 750km from his base in Hangzhou.
The Chinese League One season was supposed to kick off a fortnight ago, but was cancelled.
The Chinese FA was one of the first federations to suspend all football in the country due to the deadly disease, which has now found its way to South Africa.
The 30-year-old striker and his team-mates are holed up in Turkey and, like players in other leagues around the world, will remain idle indefinitely.
The well-travelled player from Klerksdorp in North West, this week said he was safe, insisting that “my city Hangzhou is much safer than other cities around China”.
With his contract still valid until June next year, Ndlovu will remain in China, he told City Press via a written response to questions sent to him this week.
How have you been coping amid the coronavirus outbreak?
So far, so good. I’m safe in Turkey with the club, but it’s sad that this outbreak has affected a lot of people and the global economy.
I can imagine your family was worried when the news of the virus broke late last year.
Yes, my family was worried and they are still worried. But I’ve assured them that, for now, I’m still safe because I’m in another country. But the great news again is that my city Hangzhou is much safer than other cities around China.
It must be difficult to be idle while knowing that your season could have been in its second week by now. What is the arrangement in a situation like this – do clubs continue to pay the players?
We haven’t been paid for two months. The last time we got paid was on January 2. I don’t know what’s happening with other clubs, but our club is giving us excuse after excuse.
You have always been to countries where not many South Africans dare to go – Israel, Azerbaijan and now China ...
These countries have proved over the years that they’re where football or the people have been overlooked. Football in these countries is growing massively, and their economies are also growing massively. There is not [enough] money any more in Europe. Only the big clubs in Europe can pay high salaries.
So these countries I’ve been to are attracting big names, and their governments are pumping money into soccer.
How has your stay been at Greentown FC and do you see yourself staying there?
My stay has been fruitful so far. I’ve been working hard and trying to help the team reach its objectives. But we all know that every house has its own problems.
So it has not been easy at times. I’ve been strong and have kept my mind in shape, and I still have a contract that runs until June next year.I have had a few offers and I don’t want to mention names, but my club didn’t want to let me go. I renewed my contract in May. So for now I’m still here.
Are you keen to return to the PSL or is the money too good that side?
I’m not even thinking of returning to the PSL as yet. I think I’m far better off being away from South Africa. So I’d rather be here and do what’s important, and that’s securing the bag [money].
Do you think you were afforded a chance in Bafana Bafana given your consistent scoring form?
Honestly, I have huge respect for the [national] flag, but I’ve seen how things are done in the national team and it’s not my place to speak or moan any more.
I think everyone who gets the chance to earn the coach’s respect and backing [should take it]. For me, I don’t care.
Would you say you have unfinished business with Bafana? Has new coach Molefi Ntseki ever contacted you?
For now, I’m okay with Bafana mainly because the new coach has not said anything [to me].
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