The return of coach Ernst Middendorp at Kaizer Chiefs has reignited the career of Philani Zulu at the club, with the German mentor claiming that the former Maritzburg United man understands his football philosophy.
Having previously found himself out of contention for a starting berth, Zulu has benefited from the arrival of Middendorp, with the duo having worked together at the Team of Choice.
Since Middendorp’s arrival at Chiefs following the sacking of coach Giovanni Solinas, Zulu has featured in both clashes against SuperSport United in the Absa Premiership as well as against ASSM Elgeco Plus in the Caf Confederation Cup first round.
Asked about the resurrection of the defender-cum-midfielder, the 60-year-old tactician heaped praise on Zulu, citing his ability to attack and defend.
‘Zulu understands the football I want, he can track back and also attack when is needed. I think Walusimbi is still unfit or not fresh, which made me use Philani,’ the Chiefs coach is quoted as saying by KickOff.
Middendorp also explained the thinking behind the rotation of his squad, saying that he needed to assess all his options in the squad.
‘I needed to change the squad because some players are injured, also others were not getting game time. I need to see the options we have so we can be on one page.
‘We open [the] year with a tough fixture, we will have to work on our own before thinking about them, the connection in our style of play, it will be most important for us,’ he concluded.
Middendorp’s baptism of fire will continue as Chiefs open up the new year with a clash against the defending league champions at the FNB Stadium on 5 January, with the Amakhosi mentor revealing that preparation for the clash is in full swing.
Full time score: (Zulu 33’, Castro 86, 90 + 2’, pen) Kaizer Chiefs 3 : 0 Elgeco Plus
#CAFCC #HailTheChief #KCAfrica4Life #KCOneAfrica pic.twitter.com/BNlaQnrIxw— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) December 15, 2018
Photo: BackpagePix
