With prospects like Samkelo Zwane and Wandile Duba yet to start a match this season, Kaizer Chiefs have been urged to find solutions into integrating the club's younger players in to the first team.
Amakhosi have come under some criticism this season from section of supporters over the lack of playing time given to young players.
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Mduduzi Shabalala vs Golden Arrows
— El Capitano? (@_izodlalaiTv) October 29, 2023
None of the wide players we have except Saile are able to force fullbacks to retreat like Shabalala does it:
• He takes full responsibility in the field. Hence, he's likely to make mistakes with a skill, a pass, or a shot??
• He's direct… pic.twitter.com/9Tv8G86Gfj
Mduduzi Shabalala has fared slightly better out of Chiefs group of young players, making four appearances this season, but only starting one match.
Zwane has made just three appearances as a late substitute while Duba, Donnay Jansen and Aden McCarthy are yet to feature for the team.
"Well firstly, l it's not just playing the younger players. You have to make sure they they have been prepared well.
"Playing for Chiefs comes with a huge pressure and you need to make sure that the young players coming through are well prepared.
"That's something we emphasised on when I was still at Chiefs. We did a log preparation works with guys like Jabu Pule (Mahlangu) to get their ready for the first team.
"But yes, regarding Chiefs this season, Look they are in a bit of a trick situation, where they've made some signings that essentially make it difficult for their young players.
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"With respect to the club and the decision makers there. The signings in midfield have been a bit strange. They have already have Castillo there, and Samkelo as back up. So why go and get Mthethwa? I think that's partly led to the challenge with their young players.
"So Chiefs have to make a plan for their younger players. It's important for the continuity in the team It's important or the players in the academy that they do feel that they have a shot at making the first team."
Chiefs return to DStv Premiership action with a clash against Cape Town Spurs on Wednesday, 8 November at FNB Stadium.
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