Kaizer Chiefs DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] head coach Vela Khumalo has explained Amakhosi’s decision to loan out multiple of their brightest DDC talents in the January transfer window period.
The Glamour Boys were active in the market, facilitating loan moves for five key members of their reserve squad. In terms of arrivals, the club made a single acquisition, bringing in Xhosa Manyana from Motsepe Foundation Championship side Cape Town City FC.
The five Chiefs players who were sent out on loans are Sfiso Timba [Gomora United], Vicky Mkhawana [Kruger United], Ofentse Kgosana [Casric Stars], Manqoba Ozoemena [Casric Stars], and Nkosana Mbuthu [Leicesterford City].
These youngsters were instrumental in securing Soweto giants’ historic first-ever DDC title last season. However, their absence has been felt on the pitch; the reserve side is currently navigating a four-match winless streak, leaving them fifth on the log with 27 points from 18 matches.
THE REASON BEHIND KAIZER CHIEFS LOANING OUT THEIR DDC KEY PLAYERS
According to Khumalo, these loan moves allow the players to face the fresh challenges necessary for their professional and personal development.
Despite the dip in form, coach Khumalo insists the long-term development of the players outweighs the immediate need for points.
“I think with the boys who won the league, what is there for them? They needed to go out there and face different challenges to gain more experience. Also, the two players who did well were promoted to the first team: Njabulo Hlongwane and Thulani Mabaso,” explained coach Khumalo.
“So, ultimately, you have multiple players who are out, and you have a new team in the middle of the season, and you don’t have enough time to work on it. However, it’s a work in progress.
“I think we are doing well in promoting the players, and winning the league last season was the cherry on top. It’s not always about winning the league, but the main thing is to see these players going to the next level.”
The club’s next league assignment will be against Richards Bay FC at home on Saturday, 21 February. This showdown is scheduled for 10:00 at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto.
RELATED STORY: Chiefs slump to back-to-back DDC losses, Vela Khumalo pinpoints the problem