Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt with yet another injury blow as Erick Mathoho joins the club’s growing list of sidelined players. However, the misfortune for the experienced defender presents an opportunity for 18-year-old Siyabonga Gumede, who has now joined the first team in their training sessions.
Gumede, who was named Chiefs’ reserve team Defender of the Season for the 2021-22 campaign, was spotted training with the first team on Wednesday as he fills the void left by Mathoho’s absence. With the young defender’s impressive performances for the reserves, coach Arthur Zwane is hoping he can bring the same level of quality to the first team.
Zwane has long been known to be a big advocate of promoting young talent from the Chiefs academy and reserve team. The 49-year-old tactician previously worked for the club as a youth coach and has already promoted several youngsters this season, including Mduduzi Shabalala, Wandile Duba, and Samkelo Zwane.
As Zwane seeks to bolster his defense, Gumede is an excellent option to fill the void left by the injured Mathoho. The South African under-20 international’s talents were previously on display in the PSL development league, Diski Challenge, and he is now ready to make his mark in the top tier.
Chiefs’ recent results have not been up to par, and they will be looking to bounce back in their upcoming Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates at the iconic FNB Stadium. With the pressure on, the team will be hoping for a strong performance from Gumede and the rest of the squad as they aim to secure a crucial win.
