Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebogang Manyama has praised the impact of Ernst Middendorp on his game, saying he has a good understanding with the German coach.

Manyama joined Chiefs at the beginning of last season and despite showing signs of replicating his best form, he suffered a number of different injuries which hampered his progress and kept him on the sidelines. This was much to the dismay of Middendorp, who bemoaned his absence on many occasions.

Prior to the start of the season Middendorp highlighted the impact that the former PSL Footballer of the Season could have now that he is fully fit. And now, after starting the campaign by contributing to three of Chiefs’ seven goals scored, he is proving the German right.

Manyama believes his improvements have been down to Middendorp as they have developed a good hand-in-hand relationship.

‘It’s all through the work that I put in. I think he knows the kind of attitude I have – I want to win all the time, even though it won’t be the case all the time,’ said Manyama.

‘But I think we’ve got that understanding because he knows I have the right attitude each and every day, and ever since he’s been here, I’ve learned a lot from him.

‘He’s improved my game tremendously, in many aspects. For example, when I got here, I was playing as a 10, which is way up the field, but now I can also play a bit deeper.

‘It’s all about listening to what he wants from me, and obviously then showing it on the field. Some of the things I do, he’s probably – hopefully – also learning from me.

‘So, it’s about working hand in hand with each other, but it’s a matter of listening to and learning from each other.’