Mngqithi was speaking after Abafana Bes'thende played out a 1-1 draw with Usuthu in a Betway Premiership clash on Wednesday evening, where he reflected on the overall progress of teams from KwaZulu-Natal.

The experienced coach praised the competitiveness of KZN-based sides this season, highlighting the emergence of several promising young players across the province.

He reserved special praise for Radebe, suggesting the right-back has done enough to be considered as cover in the national team, currently anchored by Khuliso Mudau, with Thabang Matuludi also in contention.

"There's been a tremendous improvement in how KZN teams have performed this year, and we should be very grateful for that," said Mngqithi as quoted by iDiski Times.

"I think we all have very young teams, which is encouraging because it shows these are ongoing projects with the potential to improve going forward. Personally, I think my team averages around 22, with one or two experienced players pushing that number up slightly."

Mngqithi also pointed to a number of standout youngsters at AmaZulu, including Zikhali, Hlangabeza and Maqokolo, noting their impact this season.

"And when you look at AmaZulu, there's also this boy Radebe, who in my opinion should be cover in the national team. He has done very well - I think he has six assists and four goals as a full-back, which is very big. Even today, he nearly punished us."

The former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor extended his praise to other KZN outfits, including Durban City and Richards Bay, singling out several emerging talents.

"And Durban City also has some very interesting young players - Jurgens, Maseko and Magawana are doing very well. Richards Bay also has a young squad with players like the Mthembus, Zikhali in midfield, and Gumede on the wing, who is very interesting.

"I can give you a long list - Ngema is still young but performing well, Barns is also doing very well.

"When you look at how KZN teams have competed this season, regardless of their positions on the table, I think all of them have done well."