Kaze Explains Shinga’s Delayed Chiefs Debut

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze says Nkanyiso Shinga needed time to adjust to life in the PSL, which contributed to the delay in his inclusion in the team.

Shinga, who joined Amakhosi during the off-season from Portuguese club UD Oliveirense, finally made his debut in Chiefs’ 1-0 defeat to Richards Bay in a Betway Premiership clash at Umhlathuze Sports Complex on Tuesday.

The left-back has struggled with injuries, which disrupted his progress and kept him sidelined for extended periods despite regaining fitness.

Kaze’s side went into the match on the back of three consecutive defeats, with the coach searching for stability in the left-back position. He had rotated Paseka Mako, Aden McCarthy and Bradley Cross in that role, but none had firmly cemented their place.

“He’s a new player in the country. He’s a player who has never played in the PSL,” Kaze said after the match.

“He needs to train well to get used to the league and to his teammates too. We thought it was the right moment to introduce him.”

However, Shinga’s long-awaited debut was cut short when he was stretchered off with an injury in the 82nd minute. By that stage, Chiefs had already used all their substitutions and were forced to play the final minutes with 10 men.

Kaze admitted it was too early to determine the severity of the injury.

“I haven’t spoken to the medical staff. We’re going to assess him tonight and tomorrow morning to see the extent of the injury,” he said.

The defeat marked a fourth straight loss for Chiefs, who have now slipped to fifth place on the Betway Premiership table.

Amakhosi return to action when they face fourth-placed Durban City on 15 March.