Kaizer Chiefs playmaker Gaston Sirino has been tipped to bounce back after seeing a crucial penalty saved in their 1-1 draw against Marumo Gallants.
Sirino, 34, has become an important member of the Chiefs squad since joining the club as a free agent, after six years at Mamelodi Sundowns.
With five goals and seven assists in 32 games for the club, his form has been indifferent, but his quality remains undeniable.
After spurning two chances to score, sections of supporters showed their frustrations, but assistant coach Ben Youssef rejected the notion they have turned on him.
“I saw a difference [than fans being unhappy over Sirino], when I made the substitution, I saw all the fans were happy for Sirino, shouting his name,” Ben Youssef said.
“Sirino is a big player – he’s one of the important players for us with big experience, he’s not the first or last player to miss a penalty – he tried to do his best but the keeper from Marumo Gallants was ready to save the ball.
“He’ll continue to work [hard]. Like I said Sirino is so confident, and we know with his quality he will help this team.”
Chiefs now turn their attention to Girabola side Kabuscorp, aiming to overturn a 1-0 deficit in their 1st preliminary round qualifier of the CAF Confederation Cup in their second leg at FNB Stadium on Saturday.