Legendary former Kaizer Chiefs forward Marks Maponyane has singled out the one new signing that has impressed him at the Soweto giants.
Amakhosi are currently on a rebuilding exercise and did a massive overhaul during the last transfer window.
CHIEFS OFFLOADED PLAYERS
Before bringing in new faces, the club offloaded 12 players deemed surplus to requirements.
Some of the club’s clean-out casualties were Bernard Parker, Anthony Akumu Agay, Kearyn Baccus, Samir Nurkovic, Ramahlwe Mphahle, Leonardo Castro, Lazarous Kambole, Lebogang Manyama, Daniel Cardoso, Dumisani Zuma, Daniel Akpeyi and Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya.
The club sent Darrel Matsheke and Lebohang Lesako to Swallows on season-long loan deals to have them gain playing experience.
To replace those who left, Chiefs brought Kamohelo Mahlatsi, Zitha Kwinika, George Matlou, Dillon Solomons, Ashley du Preez, Yusuf Maart, Siyethemba Sithebe, Edmilson Dove and Caleb Bimenyimana.
Kwinika has been a regular centre-back alongside Mozambique international Dove. Du Preez, Maart and Bimenyimana have also featured consistently for the Naturena-based side.
WHO HAS IMPRESSED MARKS MAPONYANE
But Maponyane, the ex-Bafana Bafana hitman, has revealed the one newbie at Amakhosi has impressed him so far this season.
“Yusuf Maart, forget about the goal he scored against Pirates, just his hard work. He has impressed me with the new signings,” he said.
Chiefs’ number eight has made 14 appearances across all competitions, with 12 of those coming in the league.
The former Sekhukhune captain hit the target once when they beat bitter rivals Orlando Pirates in a Soweto derby.
Reacting to the wonder goal, FIFA expressed admiration, suggesting it could make the Puskas Award nominations list.
Chiefs are currently fourth, having played 13 games this season. They have won six and drew thrice, amassing 21 points.
Log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns have 28 points from 12 games. The DStv Premiership resumes after the FIFA World Cup, with fixtures set for New Year’s Eve.
Chiefs play Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida, with Sundowns hosting Pirates at Loftus Stadium on 30 December.
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