Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp says he has seen some different patterns and qualities from Anthony Akumu in his first three weeks at the club, but needs time to make a proper assessment of the new signing.

The big midfielder joined the Glamour Boys to fill the foreigner role in the squad left open once Ghana international James Koeti, who failed to make a single appearance at Naturena in the six months that he was at the club, had departed.

Akumu, though, got his first run out for the Glamour Boys over the weekend as they edged Royal Eagles 1-0 in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 at the FNB Stadium.

Post-match Middendorp admitted that while it was nice to give Akumu a run, he still needs time to settle in at Naturena.

‘We have seen some different patterns and qualities from Anthony during this three weeks. It is good, but we need to work on some combinations – where to go and what to do. It was just the first time to grab his opportunity, get a little bit of experience,’ Middendorp told the media.

‘Percentage-wise I don’t know actually, but we have several options in midfield with other players being available. We have used him even in the centre-back positions during training and he was impressive and positive, too. I can’t make an assessment at the moment. We see good touches and understanding of being quick in tight spaces, but let’s see,’ he concluded.