Former Chiefs coach reveals Siphesihle Ndlovu’s hurdles at Naturena

Former Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Farouk Khan believes new Amakhosi signing Siphesihle Ndlovu will face a significant challenge in gelling with his new midfield partners, specifically mentioning Gaston Sirino and Thabo Cele.

Khan raised concerns about how quickly these players can forge a cohesive understanding on the field.

“The challenge he will face is how he will be complemented by the other players, such as Gaston Sirino and Thabo Cele. Will they be able to achieve this in the shortest period of time?” Khan told SoccerBeat.

He emphasised that constant team rebuilding can hinder stability and immediate chemistry.

Chiefs officially confirmed the acquisition of Ndlovu this past Saturday from the now-defunct SuperSport United. As initially reported, the midfielder has signed a three-year deal with the Soweto giants after an agreement on a transfer fee was reached.

Ndlovu, a former Orlando Pirates player, is the sixth new recruit for the Glamour Boys, joining Nkanyiso Shinga, Thabiso Monyane, Paseka Mako, Ethan Chislett, and Flavio Silva in bolstering the squad. Last season, the talented midfielder made 28 appearances across all competitions for Matsatsantsa.

While acknowledging Ndlovu’s technical abilities, good passing range, and occasional goal-scoring, Khan’s primary concern revolves around midfield dynamics.

“I think all great teams, firstly, have a very good leader in the midfield,” Khan added. He questioned Ndlovu’s leadership qualities, noting he wasn’t a primary leader during his time at Orlando Pirates or even under Gavin Hunt at SuperSport.

Ultimately, Khan concluded that Ndlovu’s success at Chiefs will hinge on the chemistry he develops with the rest of the midfield, as well as the attackers and defenders around him.