Johnson: We’re focused and ready to ‘die for the badge’

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Kaizer Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson says his side are “focused and ready to die for the badge” ahead of the much-anticipated Soweto derby.

The Glamour Boys are looking to claim maximum points and bragging rights when they take on Orlando Pirates when they meet at the FNB stadium on Saturday.

Amakhosi currently occupy sixth place on the DStv Premiership table with 29 points from 19 games, while Pirates sit in fifth place on the log with 30 points from 19 games.

Johnson refused to give any insight on his squad but insists his side is ready and fully prepared for the clash ahead.

“Ja, it’s big. People at taxi ranks, petrol stations, supermarkets, everybody is talking about the Derby. As the coach, I try to take my players completely away from the noise, and keep them at The Village.

“We try to stay away from social media as much as possible because it’s a distraction from our focus.

“Our preparations have gone very well. We have picked a very good match day squad. At the end of today’s final training session, I am satisfied that they are focused and ready to ‘die for the badge’ on the field tomorrow.

“Haha, if I told you that I would be giving away half of my team sheet, so I would rather keep that information to myself until the team is announced. You know how Derbies go, it’s best to keep quiet.

“Our team of analysts have done their job diligently. They have watched Pirates numerous times, and I expect them to be much better than they were during the week (when they drew against Cape Town Spurs).

“We know more or less what they will bring tomorrow. I expect regulars like Makgopa, Timm, Ndah and Hotto, who were absent against Spurs, to feature against us.

“We are aware of the quality they have, and I believe we have the quality to counteract whatever they bring and, more importantly, the mentality to go out and do it in front of 100 000 people.”

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