Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has explained why Flavio Silva was not afforded his debut against Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday evening.
The 29-year-old striker was lured to the club in the off-season from Indonesian outfit Persebaya and is expected to play a major role in their goal-scoring issues that has plagued them in the past few seasons.
While he’s received mixed reviews from supporters after pre-season, Silva was only eligible to make his competitive debut last night after only receiving his necessary paperwork a day before their 1-0 win over Polokwane City.
But Nabi says his lack of game time meant they opted to use Wandile Duba, while Ashley du Preez was introduced from the bench in their 0-0 draw at FNB Stadium.
“Silva his last game was at the Toyota Cup against Asante Kotoko and you know today was a big game, to throw him out there, after spending a month without a competitive game,” Nabi said about their new striker.
“It would not have been [wise], so that’s why we decided to keep him on the bench but I’m pretty sure in the future he will help us.”
Silva will be aiming to make his league debut this weekend when Chiefs travel to Moses Mabhida Stadium to face Golden Arrows.
