Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp has called for the club’s fans to show patience and understanding towards the players as he looks to ‘reclaim the glory days at Naturena.’
Middendorp has got off to a good start in his second stint at Chiefs, first guiding them to a 1-0 win over SuperSport United in the Absa Premiership last week, before crushing ASSM Elgeco Plus 3-0 in their Caf Confederation Cup first round, first leg clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
Despite the good start, Middendorp admitted that he is not the only one who is under pressure at the Glamour Boys, as the players are also feeling the weight of expectations to end the club’s dreaded trophy drought.
‘Look, I’m not the only one who is under pressure, I believe everyone in the club must play their part in reclaiming the glory days at Naturena,’ the German coach told the media after the game against Elgeco Plus.
‘We need to educate our supporters in treating our players. Castro might not be entertaining, but is a natural goal-scorer, we must appreciate our players and be patient,’ added Middendorp, clearly referring to the boos which were directed at Castro in the first half.
Middendorp may be happy with his players after the win, but refused to rule out any additions in the January transfer window.
‘We can’t say we won’t add new faces, we are currently in talks behind the scenes, it will be hard, especially as we have quality players, unfortunately they were not giving 100 % which affected the club, we [are] spoiled with quality.’
The Glamour Boys will be in action next when they travel to Madagascar for the second leg as they look to seal their progression to the final play-off round, where a spot in the group stages is up for grabs.