Muhsin Ertugral has begun pre-season preparations missing a number of players who have been away with various national teams, but the Chiefs coach has been impressed by the showing given by a number of players who have been active since the 9th June in training at Naturena.

Particularly catching the eye of the coach has been the new found hunger of the midfield duo of Michael Nkambule and Gert Schalkwyk.

For Ertugral having Nkambule and Schalkwyk this early on demonstrating a will to want to win has given the coach a lot of optimism, as he pins his team's overall success on the performances of not just these two players but on his midfielders in general. It has been hard work for Ertugral and his team and with the return of all his players who have been on international duty early next week, he believes that his plans will begin to fall into place.

Schalkwyk renewal

The fact the Schalkwyk has come back from the pre-season break leaner and looking more menacing has meant that his coach can only sing his praise. Of Schalkwyk coming back having worked extra time during the off season the coach said. “We all know that Gert was probably on his way out of here last season and we were not happy with his commitment and the fact that he was heavier, this time around Gert deserves only praise. It was good to see when we returned that Gert had shed weight and he was looking sharp in training and was setting the pace, he is really keeping his eye on the ball. If he keeps this up there is every chance that Gert will be a strong force in this team, we will support him every step and it is up to him to remain consistent in his preparations”.

Nkambule stepping in

Ertugral has said that Chiefs purchase of Nkambule was that the Amakhosi believed that he could serve the club for a long time, with Nkambule having had six months already to orientate himself at Chiefs.

The Amakhosi’s Turkish mentor is now looking towards Nkambule coming through as he explained, “when he bought Michael we knew what he was capable of and how long it would take him to reach his potential. He has had the time to adapt to coping at a team like Chiefs and just seeing the kind of shape he is in, I will say that Michael is fully aware of what is expected of him this season and I believe there are big things to come from him”.