MTNFootball

Usuthu were formed in Kwazulu-Natal in 1932 and were quickly embraced by the Zulu Royal Family and football lovers all over the province.

The club grew into one of the most recognised in the country and achieved success when they were crowned NPSL champions in 1972 and also clinched the Coca Cola Cup in 1992.

They have also needed faced some low points as they were relegated twice and had to fight to regain their elite status in 2000/01 and 2002/03.

There have been changes within the management structures at the club over the years but in 2005 the Sokhela Family Trust, with Dr Patrick Sokhela as the head, took over the club and have been in charge since then.

They go into the season in high spirits after enjoying one of their best seasons since the inception of the Premier Soccer League when they managed to finish in seventh place on the league table, and also reached the semi-finals of one of the knockout competitions.

Swedish coach Roger Palmgren, who took over a few games into the season as the club battle to pick up points, managed to stabilise the team and has been rewarded with another season at the helm.

Despite losing some a few players during the transfer period, Usuthu have kept most of the squad from last season and should be able to challenge for honours this season, which coincides with the club’s 80th anniversary.