Coach of South African Premier League side Kaizer Chiefs, Gavin Hunt says his experienced players Willard Katsande and Bernard Parker are not guaranteed starters in his team anymore as he has impressive young players coming through the ranks.
Hunt made a promise to give playing opportunities to young talents after he was impressed with their performance in their MTN8 quarter-final victory over Maritzburg United.
Hunt has specifically mentioned Katsande and Parker as players who’s position in the team is under threat from the young players.
“These guys [Katsande and Parker] have given some unbelievable service to football. They have won a lot of trophies, they have been here for some time,” Hunt said.
“I understand that people are always looking for something special. But until somebody comes up, like right now with our situation, and puts his hand up and says ‘I am willing.’ Willard and Bernard both know that these young players are good like the young [Njabulo] Bloem in Katsande’s place.
“He had a fantastic game [against Maritzburg United], came on and changed the game. But he has to be on a consistency level of playing. I have to give him opportunities, which I will do.
“And he has to keep on challenging Willard, and Willard has to say, ‘These people are on my case.’ Like in all sports, like in boxing when you get older, somebody is going to be better than you.
“Same as Bernard, he has some young boys up there, the [Lebogang] Lesako, [Keletso] Sifama coming up. These boys are going to be challenging him. But right now I don’t see players being put out of position unless somebody really puts his hand up and says, ‘Right, I’m here.’ Look at Bloem on Sunday.”
Parker played the whole 90mins against Maritzburg, while Katsande was suspended for the game.
Chiefs first game of the new Premier Soccer League season will be against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday.