Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz has offered an update on the situation surrounding Khanyisa Mayo and new striker Etiosa Ighodaro, explaining why the two forwards are yet to become regular options in his attacking department.
Mayo arrived at Naturena with considerable expectations after establishing himself as one of the most recognisable attacking players in South African football, but his involvement has been limited as he continues to work towards full match fitness.
Da Cruz has suggested that the former Cape Town City striker is not far away from being ready, but insists that the physical demands of certain fixtures mean he cannot rush his return to action.
“Mayo is not far, he’s a quality player but for this game he was not physically ready to play this type of game, he must walk into the game, and with Ighodaro, he needs to understand the game model, so we’ll work with him,” Da Cruz said.
The French tactician believes Ighodaro can become another solution for Amakhosi going forward, but his comments suggest that understanding the team’s tactical requirements will be just as important as his physical condition before he can make a sustained impact.
For Chiefs, competing over the full 90 minutes requires more than simply having quality players available. They need sufficient physical condition and depth to match opponents who can change the tempo of a game through their substitutions.
“He can be another solution… when we play teams like Pirates, we need to be physically ready, you see the last 20 minutes, they are full of intensity, they introduce fresh players with quality, so we must be ready.”