Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson has revealed one problem that he’s been experiencing with midfielder Edson Castillo.
Castillo joined Chiefs at the beginning of the season coming from Venezuelan top-tier side Monagas SC.
Upon his arrival in the DStv Premiership, he was under the guidance of coach Molefi Ntseki who was later shown the door in October 2023 following a string of poor results. From there, Johnson took charge.
Johnson says Castillo is facing stiff competition for a place in the starting line-up after he went to represent Venezuela in March, that’s why he hasn’t been playing like before.
CAVIN JOHNSON ON EDSON CASTILLO’S PROBLEM
At first, Castillo was starting many matches, scoring goals and providing assists. In 23 matches in all competitions, he started 20 times and came in as a substitute three times. He scored five goals and provided an assist.
Since returning from national duty, Castillo has played eight matches. He has made only two starts and came in five times as a substitute.
In Castillo’s position, there are talented players like Yusuf Maart, Siyethemba Sithebe, Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Mduduzi Shabalala.
“Players go through forms and [Edson] Castillo is no different. The only problem with Castillo is only that he went away with the South American team; Venezuela and he came back,” said Johnson.
“The players that are playing in his position, are doing fairly well, so you don’t just change your team.
“So that’s probably what has kept him a little back. The players that are playing in his position are playing well, so he has to understand that.”
With two matches remaining to wrap up the season, Castillo will be aiming to get some more game time. Chiefs will play Polokwane City FC on Saturday, 18 May and relegated Cape Town Spurs on Saturday, 25 May.
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