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BobSteak on Middendorp’s appointment – There will always be criticism

You are currently viewing BobSteak on Middendorp’s appointment – There will always be criticism
Ernst Middendorp

Bobby Motaung says that he knew there would be backlash from the Kaizer Chiefs supporters following the sacking of coach Giovanni Solinas and the subsequent appointment Ernst Middendorp, writes MARSHALL GOUTS.

The Soweto giants sent shockwaves throughout the local football fraternity when they confirmed the unveiling of Middendorp as Solinas’ successor, with the German mentor completing a return to the Naturena-based outfit, following a stint with the club 13 years ago.

The German enjoyed mixed success during his tenure as Chiefs, winning two trophies, but in addition also subjected to trying times with the club’s supporters, who wanted him out towards the latter stages of his Amakhosi career.

When speaking about Middendorp’s appointment, Chiefs’ football manager, Bobby Motaung, acknowledged that large sections of the Chiefs fanbase could feel disgruntled. However, BobSteak did also jokingly claim that some fans would not even be happy with the appointment Sir Alex Ferguson or Jose Mourinho.

‘As a club, we do respect the supporters – that’s why these changes are being done sometimes, they are made to satisfy the supporters,’ he told the media in a press conference.

‘It is the team that they love, and as the coach says, it is about results. You see, now the challenge of changing a coach again, it is because of them the supporters as well. They are part of the puzzle.’

Motaung emphasised that no matter who had been brought in to replace Solinas, there would have been some unsatisfied followers.

‘We expect negativity, and this puts us properly in line with what we want to achieve,’ he said.

‘We do expect that, even if I bring (Jose) Mourinho, I will get negativity. Even if I bring Sir Alex Ferguson, they will say he is old‚ he’s this and he is that. There would be criticism everywhere. So, we welcome all the negativity,’ he added.

Motaung reaffirmed the decision to bring in Middendorp, claiming that he is well versed with the club and its culture.

‘I’ve been engaging with the coach, Ernst Middendorp, for the past two weeks, and fortunately he was prepared to come back home and assist in taking the journey forward.

‘He understands South Africa. He’s a South African by the way. He’s got an ID,’ he concluded.

Photo: Backpagepix