Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp felt the decision to sign Daniel Akpeyi was justified after his Soweto Derby debut, and believes Itumeleng Khune will have stiff competition next season.

Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp has admitted that new goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi was brought in to challenge Itumeleng Khune for the No 1 spot next season.

The Nigerian keeper was brought on transfer deadline day after Chiefs struggled to deal with the injury of Khune, who was ruled out for the remainder of his injury at the start of the year.

Akpeyi was thrown into the deep end as he made his debut in last weekend Soweto derby, and despite conceding a late equaliser the keeper received praise from his German coach, who also highlighted his intentions for next season.

‘Chiefs’ management had a very clear profile – not to bring someone in that would be in competition for second or third choice, we have enough in this department,’ said the German.

‘It was a very clear understanding, already looking into next season, to have two top No 1 keepers.

‘Judging from what we’ve seen from Daniel in this short period, and carrying such expectations in a derby with a massive crowd, to show the calmness and structure despite not being fully familiar with the team, he handled it very well.

‘We definitely got confirmation that Kaizer Chiefs, from the management’s side, made the right decision to bring him in.’

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