It’s been clear that Kaizer Chiefs have taken a step forward this season. The overall level has improved. However, one problem remains stubbornly obvious: the left-back position.
Watching Amakhosi in the first half of the campaign, the contrast between the two full-back roles has been striking.
LET’S TALK ABOUT PASEKA MAKO, BRADLEY CROSS AND NKANYISO SHINGA
Watching Amakhosi in the first half of the campaign, the contrast between the two full-back roles has been striking.
On the right, Dillan Solomons has consistently delivered the kind of energy and end product every coach demands. On the left, the output simply hasn’t matched that standard.
Paseka Mako has struggled to stay fit, while Bradley Cross has been defensively reliable but offers very little going forward.
Pre-season signing Nkanyiso Shinga appears set to move on. His only appearance in a Kaizer Chiefs shirt came in a friendly against Asante Kotoko, and he has failed to break into the matchday squad since.
WHY LEFT-BACK IS URGENT NOW FOR KAIZER CHIEFS
Kaizer Chiefs should obviously return to CAF football next season. There are three routes available: a top-three league finish, winning the CAF Confederation Cup, or lifting the Nedbank Cup in May.
All three objectives need quality for a key position as left-back. Mako’s unreliable fitness and Cross’ limited attacking intent leave Amakhosi short in a key area at the business end of the season.
January is not about long-term projects. It’s about plug-and-play signings, players who can make an immediate impact.
That’s why John Mokone of Magesi FC stands out.
The 26-year-old left-back is Betway Premiership-proven. He has already played 12 league matches this season, and has chipped in with two goals.
Last season, Mokone ranked as South Africa’s third-most productive left-back with four assists, behind only Fawaaz Basadien of Stellenbosch FC and Orlando Pirates’ Deon Hotto.
A former winger at Mbombela United, Mokone brings natural attacking instincts. His top-flight record reads 44 appearances, three goals and four assists in a demanding league.
Coming from the humble levels of Magesi FC, Kaizer Chiefs would also be signing a player with hunger, motivation and something to prove.