AmaZulu playmaker Hendrick ‘Pule’ Ekstein has warned the club’s caretaker coach Ayanda Dlamini ahead of his first game in charge.
Dlamini took over from Romain Folz, who was ‘redeployed’ during the week following a string of poor results.
The Frenchman was confirmed as the new technical director and will have no say on first-team matters despite signing a new three-year contract a month ago.
HE GUIDES USUTHU
On Sunday, he guides Usuthu for the first time at the helm with just five games before the end of the season.
The changes were no surprise after a poor run of form dragged them into a relegation battle for the season’s final six games.
AmaZulu president has given Dlamini an ambitious target for the five games he oversees the team.
Zungu wants a top-eight finish which would guarantee the team of MTN8 football at the start of next season.
In the 2022/23 edition, Usuthu went as far as the final in the competition, only losing 1-0 to Orlando Pirates.
AMAZULU PUSHING FOR TOP EIGHT
AmaZulu is currently in 12th place with 28 points, while Richards Bay, in eighth position, are three points ahead of them.
“Obviously, it’s not a nice thing to lose a coach, irrespective of which coach it is, but with coach Ayanda, he’s been there, he knows the guys, we know him also,” Ekstein said.
“It’s not going to be a difficult team where it is, and take it forward, but I think we’re ready and happy for the match.”
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However, Ekstein has warned Dlamini that facing an in-form Cape Town City at their home ground will be insurmountable. The KZN side and City meet at the DHL Stadium on Sunday (17h30).
While AmaZulu wants a top-eight finish, City is making a late push for CAF Inter-club competition spots. A top three would guarantee them that wish.
“Going to Cape Town is not easy, knowing how City plays,” Ekstein added. “We saw them in mid-week, and they are playing well; it will be difficult since we’re not doing well in the league.
“But we’re ready as a team and hoping things go well. We’re preparing well and can’t wait [for the game].”
Usuthu is just four points ahead of 16th-placed Maritzburg United, meaning a further slump in form could land them in the murky waters of relegation.