Young Kaizer Chiefs defender Siphesihle Ntiya-Ntiya has hailed Steve Komphela’s influence after breaking into the first team this season.

The 21-year-old has been a constant in the Chiefs defence under new boss Giovanni Solinas this season, playing seven out of their eight matches across all competitions so far.

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The Amakhosi backline has come under pressure from fans and media alike after some poor defensive showings. Ntiya-Ntiya, however, has been largely spared criticism as the left back seems to be turning into a fan favourite.

The signing of Ugandan left back Godfrey Walusimbi will provide the young defender with competition for a place in the team, but despite the added competition, Ntiya-Ntiya believes he is ready to follow in the footsteps of other footballers who hailed from KwaZulu-Natal after Komphela called him up to the first team at Naturena last season.

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Speaking to Goal.com, the defender said, ‘The time I was being promoted, Komphela thoroughly explained to me what it means to be a Chiefs player.

‘He also told me about the legacy brought and left behind by KZN players at the club. He said I must use wisely the advantage of being a Chiefs player because it is a special gift.

‘I promise I will follow in the footsteps of the elders,’ concluded the diminutive defender.

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Photo: Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix