Cape Town City coach Benni McCarthy praised the signings of Kermit Erasmus and Thato Mokeke, who he expects will add great value to the squad, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

The Citizens bolstered their squad by acquiring the services of Erasmus and Mokeke as they look to close the gap on log leaders Bidvest Wits.

McCarthy admits that he is happy with what he has seen from the duo, who both made their debuts during City’s 1-0 win over SuperSport United last week.

‘I’m very happy with what I have seen‚ and I’m really happy with the new additions. It’s been excellent. The way we have strengthened the team has been really smart and in the right areas‚’ McCarthy said.

‘Slowly‚ slowly we are coming into our own‚ under the radar and unnoticed‚ which is a good thing. We know it’s a marathon and not a sprint.’

McCarthy says he is happy with the new additions to his squad, while insisting that he likes their work rate as well as the example they show to their teammates.

‘I don’t want to deal with pop stars‚ I want to deal with footballers who are hungry to achieve things and score goals‚’ he added.

‘Enjoy the talent you are given‚ but be willing to work hard.

‘Kermit fits that mould exactly and he is an example to the other players‚ young and old‚ of what we have in the squad. His quality is second to none‚ when you see him work‚ you just have to admire him.’

He continued: ‘He is an Ajax [Cape Town] product‚ so he knows everything. He knows how to pass‚ how to control‚ how to be professional. He is a 4×4‚ he does everything well. You can adjust him and he is able to manage anything.

‘What a lucky strike for us to be able to get a player of that calibre for next to nothing.’

Cape Town City are set to welcome Baroka to Cape Town Stadium when the two sides meet in the Absa Premiership on Saturday, with kick-off set for 8:15pm.