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Selection poser for Chiefs’ Zwane with key players unavailable
Zwane has struggled to keep the same team for more that three games in a row since taking over as Chiefs coach.
Siyethemba Sithebe of Kaizer Chiefs is among a number of players unavailable this weekend. Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images
Kaizer Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane will again have to reshuffle his team when they meet Sekhukhune United at the weekend.
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The two sides meet in a DStv Premiership clash at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo on Sunday afternoon.
Chiefs will go into the match without two of their key players in Sifiso Hlanti and Siyethemba Sithebe.
Both Hlanti and Siyethemba are suspended for one match after receiving their fourth yellow cards last weekend.
They were booked in Chiefs’ Nedbank Cup quarterfinal clash against Royal AM in Durban.
Chiefs won that match 2-1 with Yusuf Maart’s penalty conversion in extra time.
Zwane has struggled to keep the same team for more that three games in a row since taking over as Amakhosi coach.
If it is not injuries, it is suspensions that force him into making the changes which disturb the rhythm.
“We have had a very difficult season,” Zwane admitted earlier this month as the list of injuries and suspensions kept growing.
“I think this is the worst season ever since I have been here at Kaizer Chiefs. I have been an assistant and I started in the development.
“I don’t think any other coach has been in the situation that we are in now… myself and Sheppy (Dillon Sheppard) and the rest of the technical team.
Chiefs also have some injuries
“We have had so many challenges,” added the Chiefs mentor who is in his first season as head coach.
Added to the suspensions, Chiefs still have a few senior players like Erick Mathoho, Khama Billiat, Phathutshedzo Nange and Cole Alexander nursing injuries.
“There are about five or six senior players who have (out with injuries), which is worrying but we can’t force matters.
“We have to wait for them to be ready and then throw them in. We know they can add value, but it’s unfortunate they are not available because of injuries.”
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The Sekhukhune game is crucial for Chiefs in their quest for the second spot in the Premiership.
Chiefs are currently fourth, three points behind second placed SuperSport United, and two behind Orlando Pirates who are third.
