Kaizer Chiefs experienced defender Sifiso Hlanti has revealed how the club is helping Ashley Du Preez stay positive following his dip in form.
Du Preez joined Chiefs at the beginning of the season as one of the marquee signings from Stellenbosch, with Amakhosi rebuilding and attempting to form a squad to challenge for honours.
However, Du Preez’s performances of late have been below-par after a decent start, which saw him earn a Bafana Bafana call-up for the friendlies against Sierra Leone and Botswana in September.
The 25-year-old has scored two goals and provided two assists in nine matches in all competitions so far this season.
But in the last few games, Du Preez, who can be deployed as a forward, right and left-wing, has failed to make any meaningful contribution at Amakhosi.
HOW AMAKHOSI ARE HELPING DU PREEZ
“It is true [du Preez is struggling], but it is up to us [players]; we are the key; we are the ones who need to give him support and encourage him at all times,” Hlanti told the media.
“We know that in this game of football, these things [dip in form] happen, but it depends at that point in time, what and which support you get from your colleagues as well.”
Hlanti also believes that it is only a matter of time before Du Preez finds his form and hits top gear.
“The key factor and the key thing for us is the character; we support one another, and the things that he does at training show the positive signs going forward,” added Hlanti.
“Because you can see the games we have played, we played collectively as a team, and we give support to everyone, and the support that we get as well from the technical team is amazing.
“He shows the positive signs, and he fights from the beginning until the last minute, so we can’t point fingers and say he is not doing the most and he is not doing what he is capable of. It is just a matter of time.”
