Cape Town City wing Gift Links is determined to book his place in coach Benni McCarthy’s squad after he was given a starting berth against Orlando Pirates, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

The former Platinum Stars attacker was mainly introduced from the bench in their first nine games of the campaign, but started and played the full 90 minutes in their 2-2 draw against the Buccaneers last week in the Absa Premiership.

The 19-year-old has since made seven appearances in all competitions for the Citizens, four in the league and three in the MTN8.

Links says he is willing to work hard and fight for a regular place in the City squad, starting with this weekend’s MTN8 final against SuperSport United.

‘Every time I come on as a substitute, the coach [McCarthy] tells me, “Boy, don’t be scared, just play your own game.” He told me he would introduce me little-by-little, so now I’m looking forward to starting more games.

‘If I get that chance, I will make sure that I cement my place in the team,’ Links added.

Cape Town City’s next assignment will be against SuperSport United when the two sides square off in the MTN8 final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday with kick-off set for 7pm.

WATCH: Gift Links address the media

Photo: Chris Ricco/BackpagePix