Kaizer Chiefs defender Given Msimango believes he has stepped up when the club needed him most and hopes to provide further depth to aid the team until the end of the season.

Msimango had found it challenging to secure regular playing time at Naturena this season following the acquisitions of Inacio Miguel and Rushwin Dortley at the conclusion of the previous season.

However, the former TS Galaxy captain has managed to feature in at least nine league games this season due to injuries sustained by both Dortley and Miguel.

He was a key player in their recent 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns, which secured their place in the Nedbank Cup final against their biggest rivals, Orlando Pirates, at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 10 May.

“Personally, I think I’m in a good space because I’ve been putting in the hard work on and off the pitch,” said Msimango. 
 
“I feel confident in my contribution to the team. It’s always about improving, staying consistence, and I believe the focus is starting to show in my performances. 
 
“So, I’m just looking forward to maintaining a strong performance high within the team.” 

Chiefs, who ended a four-game winless streak with their victory over Sundowns, next face Chippa United at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday at 17:30.

Msimango believes another significant effort will be crucial against a Chippa United side that will present a tough challenge.

This match is anticipated to be competitive as both teams are vying for a spot in the league’s top eight.

Chiefs currently occupy eighth position in the Betway Premiership table with 30 points after 24 matches, just one point ahead of ninth-placed Chippa United, who have two games in hand.

“Of course, Chippa United are a very competitive side because they are a very structured and disciplined team,” Msimango said. 
 
“We faced them before in the league, and we’ve come out victorious. We also faced them in the cup, and we managed to get another victory against them. 
 
“But I think that doesn’t take away that we demand, and we expect a lot. We want full concentration from the guys, but we are ready to face them and take it on the day.”