Da Cruz Explains Mayo & Ighodaro Exclusions
Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says Khanyisa Mayo is still not physically ready to compete at the required level, explaining why the forward has yet to feature in the matchday squad this season.
Mayo is yet to make an appearance for Amakhosi this campaign and has also been left out of the matchday squad, with concerns over his fitness continuing to keep him out of contention.
The forward initially joined Chiefs on loan from Algerian side MC Alger last season before making his move to Naturena permanent this season. However, he struggled to make a significant impact during his loan spell.
Mayo also missed the club’s pre-season tour of Spain and has so far been unable to establish himself as a regular option under Da Cruz.
Speaking after Chiefs’ disappointing 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium on Saturday, Da Cruz explained why Mayo has yet to feature.
“No, Mayo is not far off in terms of quality. However, where he still needs to improve is physically,” said Da Cruz.
“He is not yet physically ready to play at this level, and it is difficult to select players who are not physically prepared for this type of game. He needs to continue working hard to reach the required level.”
The Chiefs coach also provided an update on Etiosa Ighodaro, who has struggled to secure regular game time since the start of the season and has also recently been left out of the matchday squad.
“Regarding Ighodaro, I believe he is around 22 or 23 years old, so he should be physically ready. However, he is still struggling to fully understand our playing model. We are working with him, and he could become another option for us,” Da Cruz added.
“When you play against a team like Orlando Pirates, you have to be physically prepared because they play with great intensity. We saw that in the final 20 minutes of the game. Our energy levels dropped, while they were able to introduce fresh, quality players who increased the intensity and put us under pressure.
“We have to be physically ready to compete against teams like Pirates.”
Chiefs will now turn their attention to their next assignment against Siwelele in the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup.
Both Mayo and Ighodaro will be hoping to earn a place in the matchday squad as they look to regain their form and convince Da Cruz that they are ready to make a contribution to the team.
