Kaizer Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane has pointed out the area academy graduate Mduduzi Shabalala has improved.
In past matches, Zwane has preferred to use Shabalala as his central attacking midfielder. The teenager brings in a lot of speed when the team is in possession and creativity at the centre.
On Sunday, Shabalala was on target, scoring his second DStv Premiership goal as Amakhosi lost 3-2 to Golden Arrows.
WHAT SHABALALA HAS IMPROVED ON
According to Zwane, Shabalala improved his positioning and in decision making.
“When I look at Mdu, he carried the team. I could see now in terms of the decision making especially getting into the right areas,” Zwane told the media.
“I think there was a moment he could’ve three goals in a space of about seven minutes. One went over the bar, the other one he was supposed to play Christian [Saile].
“At the moment, we don’t want to put him under pressure, we want him while he’s still doing well.”
ZWANE EXPLAINS DECISION TO SUB OFF SHABALALA
Despite Shabalala having a great game against Golden Arrows, he was subbed off. Zwane says it was a tactical decision.
“I thought of bringing in [Phathutshedzo] Nange [and take off Shabalala] to kill the game in the middle and then push Yusuf [Maart] further forward. Use his experience so we can press forward and not allow them to come to us.
“Unfortunately, it didn’t work but I think Mdu gave us something,” he added.
Shabalala is expected to feature on Saturday 25 February when Chiefs and Orlando Pirates renew rivalry in the Soweto derby.
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