Cape Town City head coach Eric Tinkler has hailed the progress of teenage defender Patrick Fisher after his impressive display against Kaizer Chiefs.
The 19-year-old deputised for captain Thami Mkhize and held his own with a matured display against Amakhosi star Khama Billiat in the 2-1 victory.
Having been signed from rivals Cape Town Spurs in the off-season, Fisher was lauded as one for the future but Tinkler admits he seems ready for regular game time now.
“I saw Patrick when he was playing for Cape Town Spurs and already then he had a bit of taste of what it’s like playing at the higher level and progressively he’s got stronger physically because we’ve put him through a very rigorous programme,” Tinkler said.
“He can compete now against the Billat, one of the best strikers in our country, one of the best dribblers in the country, his stats are the highest in the league in terms of his dribbles and Patrick done extremely well, dealt with him extremely well.”
Tinkler revealed that his mentality is second to none and stated Mkhize stated prior to the start of the season, that competition would be tough as he saw his ability in training.
“What I like about Patrick is that he has a certain arrogance about himself, certain confidence about himself. He’s not someone you need to put under pressure, or you could put him under pressure and he’s able to deal with it.
“He’s been patiently waiting for his opportunity and the good thing is his own captain has a lot of trust in him. Thami obviously gave him tips prior to the game.
“Thami also said at the start of the season; coach I’m going to have to be on my toes, this young man has talent and he’s right – he’s going to be a very talented right-back.”
It was Fisher’s second start in only four appearances in the DStv Premiership this season for the Citizens who are unbeaten in 10 league games since the start of 2022.
