Stellenbosch CEO Rob Benadie has highlighted Ashley du Preez’s qualities and how Kaizer Chiefs can get the best out of him.
Du Preez has had a tough start to life in Gauteng after joining Chiefs during the pre-season. Amakhosi snapped him up after a stellar 2021/22 DStv Premiership season for the Cape Town outfit.
The Bafana Bafana attacker helped Stellies finish in the top eight, subsequently losing some of their key players, including Zitha Kwinika.
However, Du Preez is yet to replicate that form that made him a household name at the Winelands side.
But Benadie has given advice on how Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane can maximise his potential.
DU PREEZ HAS PACE
He is convinced the Cape Town-born star is the fastest player in the domestic league, a ‘weapon’ Zwane could use against opponents.
“Ashley is a wonderful boy. He is got a weapon that it is difficult for us as a club to get it back. His pace and very dynamic, probably the fastest guy in the league,” Benadie told the FARPost.
“We need to get around him and give him that support so that he can get his groove back. My recommendation to Kaizer Chiefs, give him time and support and be patient with him. He will deliver.”
Benadie is aware that playing for Chiefs is not for everyone, regardless of talent. He hopes Du Preez comes to terms with the demands of playing for Chiefs.
“The pressure is different at Chiefs, and he is adapting. If you’re gonna put more pressure on him, he may not achieve what he should. He has got everything you need in a player, and most importantly, the style of football is totally different.”
He adds that at Stellies, “there was no pressure for us to win the league”.
“But at Chiefs, every game is a must-win. I am really hoping that he manages to deal with it well.”
In his 13 matches in all competitions, Du Preez has scored three goals with two assists for Amakhosi.
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