Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has shed light on the role of Dillon Sheppard following his recent return to the senior team. ‘Sheppy’ had been working within the club’s development structures, primarily with the DStv Diski Challenge side.
However, amid growing pressure and the need for additional support within the senior setup, the club has opted to bring the former Bafana Bafana winger back into the first-team environment after nearly 20 months away.
The 47-year-old is no stranger to the senior bench at Naturena. He has previously served as assistant coach under several Chiefs head coaches, including Cavin Johnson, Molefi Ntseki, Arthur Zwane, Stuart Baxter and Gavin Hunt.
During Thursday’s media open day, Sheppard was spotted working closely with the co-coaches during training, sparking curiosity about the exact nature of his responsibilities within the senior team setup.
Addressing the situation, Kaze confirmed that the technical team has been strengthened in response to the club’s struggles in the final third. According to the Burundian tactician, Sheppard’s return is intended to provide additional guidance and support to the players as the team looks to sharpen its attacking output.
KAZE ON SHEPPARD’S ROLE
“I believe that the technical staff has enough skill to deal with that [lack of goals],” Kaze explained. This was after the 1-0 win over Durban City. He had been questioned about the team’s difficulties in converting their opportunities.
“It’s something we’ve been working on, and we now also have an extra member in the technical staff. With the experience he has, and the experience of everyone else… [we’re confident].”
The decision to elevate Sheppard stems from a need for tactical diversity. His experience in the PSL provides a local perspective that complements the current coaching duo.
Kaze revealed that one of the ways they are trying to help the team is through specialised drills. These are focused on completing specific match-day scenarios. He added that they are also assisting attackers in overcoming the mental barriers of missed chances.
“On the training ground, we do a lot of exercises to finish. A lot of situations that could arise in the game. I’m sure that once the players gain a bit more confidence, we’re gonna be better in that phase,” added Kaze.
The Durban City FC victory moved Amakhosi to fifth place. They are just one point behind AmaZulu FC and Sekhukhune United, who have both played two more games. Chiefs turn their focus to the weekend tie against struggling Magesi at FNB on Saturday.
RELATED STORY: Lilepo strike against Durban City eases Kaizer Chiefs’ woes