Kaizer Chiefs defender Bradley Cross has publicly addressed the criticism directed at him by the club’s supporters, explaining how he has learned to benefit from their feedback and use it to improve his performance.
The 24-year-old left-back has had a good start to the 2025/26 PSL season, having helped the Soweto giants keep two clean sheets in their opening two league games this month.
Amakhosi have registered two Betway Premiership wins against Stellenbosch FC [2-0] away from home and Polokwane City FC [1-0] at home.
Last season, Cross faced significant criticism on social media from a section of the Chiefs fanbase due to the team’s inconsistent results.
The former Golden Arrows player made 23 appearances across all competitions for the Nasreddine Nabi-coached side, with his performances as both a left-back and centre-back fluctuating between good and bad.
WHAT BRADLEY CROSS SAID ABOUT KAIZER CHIEFS FANS CRITICISM
Cross acknowledged that receiving criticism is common when playing for big clubs like Chiefs, but he also emphasised that it has contributed to enhancing his performance.
“Well, it’s normal to receive constructive criticism. I think it helps me as a player to improve,” said Cross during Chiefs’ open media day at Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena on Monday.
“I believe it helps the team grow and move forward, whether I make mistakes or not. It is also good to have healthy competition in that position [left-back].”
Meanwhile, Cross went on to share his thoughts on the healthy competition for the left-back position with new signings Paseka Mako and Nkanyiso Shinga.
“Firstly, I think having competition is beneficial because it helps you improve and prevents complacency,” he added.
“Having the guys [Mako and Shinga] in the same position is good for squad depth.”
Chiefs’ next league assignment will be against Richards Bay FC on Tuesday, 19 August, at FNB Stadium in Soweto. The match will kick off at 19:30.
RELATED STORY: Bradley Cross on why he came back to South Africa