Kaizer Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy believes he is hitting peak physical and mental condition at a decisive point in the season, with Amakhosi firmly focused on securing a top-three finish and a return to continental football.
After a stop-start campaign disrupted by injuries, McCarthy says a renewed emphasis on recovery and conditioning has helped him rediscover his sharpness. The 22-year-old, now in his second season with the senior team, has grown into a key figure in the squad.
He has featured in 20 matches across all competitions this season, scoring twice and starting 18 of those games, a clear indication of his growing influence.
The son of former Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy is expected to play a pivotal role when Amakhosi face Magesi FC on Saturday evening. He returns to the fold after serving a suspension for the match against Durban City FC, which Chiefs won 1-0.
The Magesi FC clash is scheduled for 18:00 at Moses Mabhida Stadium. The Soweto giants currently sit fifth on the table but hold two games in hand over Sekhukhune United and AmaZulu FC, who occupy third and fourth place respectively. A victory could see Amakhosi climb into the top three, depending on Usuthu’s result against Polokwane City FC.
CHIEFS TARGETING TOP THREE FINISH: MCCARTHY
“Mentally and physically, I think I’m in the best position and shape that I can be in for the season so far,” he said. “I’ve had injuries at the beginning of the season, but now I’ve been doing a lot of recovery and looking after my body and my muscles. That helps with knowing how to manage yourself.”
However, the South African international has also had to contend with suspensions at crucial moments, something he admits has been frustrating.
“Being suspended for games, and missing games is not a nice feeling because it’s like deciders that I’ve missed because of suspension. The CAF game I didn’t feel well about it…” McCarthy explained.
Despite those setbacks, the defender insists the squad remains aligned on its primary objective – finishing in the top three to secure qualification for CAF interclub competition next season.
“I feel like we all need to have the same vision, and that vision is finishing in the top three. No matter what happens with other teams, it’s out of our control. We can work together as a team to achieve that.”
McCarthy stressed the importance of maintaining consistency against all opposition, warning against underestimating teams lower down the table.
“You need to prepare the same way as if it were a big game, like a derby or a Mamelodi Sundowns game. You get your points from those fixtures because those teams are also fighting to be safe for next season.”
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