Kaizer Chiefs have won just one of their last five league matches. In his plea for patience, head coach Nasreddine Nabi has come to the defence of his players and issued an apology.
The Soweto giants' top-four ambitions are hanging by a thread after a recent run of poor results that has seen them winless in their last three league outings, slumping to eighth in the standings after 23 matches.
The latest disappointment came in a shock 2-1 defeat to Golden Arrows on Saturday.
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Not only was the result underwhelming, but the lack of 'fight' on the part of the players has also come under scrutiny from sections of supporters and pundits alike. Among others, Teko Modise questioned the 'attitude' of Chiefs players when reviewing the match on SuperSport TV.
Nabi not only called for patience with his project but pleaded against attacks on players.
"But my message [to the fans] is patience. We don't have any solution now, but stay patient and continue to support the team. But I trust the fans of Kaizer Chiefs, they love the team too much," Nabi said post-match.
"I want patience, give me patience. I'm very sorry, honestly, I'm very sorry for the result. I am the first man with the most frustration.
"We understand, altogether, the frustration for the team at this moment, but please don't panic. We will continue to work seriously and give 200 percent for the club.
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"But don't panic please, and don't attack the players. I offer that you attack me now, it's normal, but don't attack the players. Protect the team and the players because the season is not finished, and I am sure we will change the situation," he pleaded.
Chiefs will be in search of redemption when they take on TS Galaxy at New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Saturday.