Football: Kgosi Ntlhe signs for Rochdale AFC

Photo: Journeaux

Kgosi Ntlhe in action for Dale against Middlesborough

Kgosi Ntlhe has signed for Rochdale AFC on a free transfer from League Two side Stevenage.

The 23-year-old South African has signed a two-year deal after impressing during a trial period.

Ntlhe said: “I’m very happy. I’ve been here for a few weeks now, training with the boys. At first it was quite tough, but now I’m used to it and I’m really enjoying my time here.

“The training is so hard, but after a few days my body got used to it. I’ve played a few games now. My last one was on Tuesday against Barnsley. That was quite tough, but I managed to get 60 minutes in so it was good.”

Ntlhe is a player that manager Keith Hill was interested in two years ago, and is pleased to have now recruited him, he said: “I tried to recruit Kgosi two seasons ago when I spoke to Barry Fry [at Peterborough], but he was worth over £2,000,000.

“He’s got talent, character. We want winning instincts, and I think he’s got those. He’s athletic, he’s dynamic, he passes the ball well, he’s on the front foot.

“For me it represents good value for money as a squad player. It’s up to him to get into the starting line-up, and then when we get Joe Bunney back there is a conundrum.”

Born in Pretoria, South Africa, Ntlhe joined Peterborough United in 2009 on a two-year apprenticeship. After signing a professional contract in 2011, he joined St Alban's City on loan, making five appearances.

Upon returning to Peterborough he made 89 appearances over five years, before joining Stevenage in 2016, making 24 appearances last season.