Incoming Chippa United assistant coach Mabhuti Khanyeza says they are not a team who deserve to be part of a relegation dogfight.
The 42-year-old joined the Gqeberha Betway Premiership side shortly after resigning from Golden Arrows.
Khanyeza brings plenty of experience to Chippa, having worked for Maritzburg United and AmaZulu as an assistant coach and as head coach of TS Galaxy and Golden Arrows.
He was roped in to help the club’s new head coach, Thabo September, after former mentor Kwanele Kopo declined to renew his contract with the Chilli Boys.
Their first assignment together as coaches will be against Marumo Gallants at the Buffalo City Stadium in East London on Saturday (8pm).
Chippa was prone to fighting relegation in the past, but its supporters witnessed some positive change last season when, for the first time in many seasons, the team played their last league game without fear of the big drop.
Under the guidance of Kopo and September the Chilli Boys finished in 12th position on the log.
In the two preceding seasons, Chippa ended 14th, just avoiding the relegation zone battles.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs and Golden Arrows striker said he hoped to continue with the positive change and help Chippa move even higher on the log.
“I think a team like Chippa was not deserving to be where they would end [relegation zone] in the previous seasons because Chippa has an eye for quality players,” Khanyeza said.
“They are good when it comes to recruitment of players and at identifying players, even at junior level.
“They have started well this season, and I must compliment the coaches.
“They did very well in terms of earning points.
“Now I think it is our responsibility to add on and make sure the team finish even higher than they did last season.
“Because it’s all about the mind and the mindset where you think other people are better than you, but then you have the quality.”
Chippa are now 12th, with 14 points from 11 matches.
Khanyeza, who has also played for SuperSport United, said he hoped to be able to contribute to Chippa’s success.
“I think the coaches have done well so far; we just need to continue getting points and maintaining the good run.
“The experience and the knowledge that I have I am here to share with the coaches and the players so that we improve.
“That is why I am not only involved in the first team, but also with the junior teams.
“We want the club to be better than just focusing on one direction.”
HeraldLIVE
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