Kaizer Chiefs midfielder George Matlou is relieved to finally be finding his form, attributing his slow start to the season to injuries.
George Matlou joined Kaizer Chiefs last season on a two-year deal from Moroka Swallows, and he had a turbulent start to life at Naturena.
The 25-year-old only featured in 15 games in all competitions, 12 in the league, as Amakhosi ended their eighth season without a trophy.
However, in the new season, Matlou has already played in seven games across all competitions, impressing many in the middle of the park, including his coach, Molefi Ntseki.
Matlou said he has been working his socks off in order to play regular football, insisting that injury setbacks were the main reason he was relegated to the bench even when he was fit to play last campaign.
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“It is just hard work,” said Matlou in Durban when asked about his decent start to the 2023/24 season.
“Of course, I didn’t have the best start last season. Unfortunately, I got injured. Injuries were there for me last season.
“But I just make sure that whenever I’m given a chance, I’m just going to use it. No matter how many minutes I play, what matters most is me playing, giving my best.”
Furthermore, Matlou is of the view that the new signings at Amakhosi have made a positive impact so far as the club looks to end their long trophy drought.
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The Soweto giants signed top-quality players in a bid to reclaim their place at the top of South African football.
They acquired the services of nine players: Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Tebogo Potsane, Given Msimango, Edson Castillo, Mduduzi Mdantsane, Pule Mmodi, Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Ranga Chivaviro and, Jasond Gonzalez.
“The new signings like Pule, the connection is good, we know each other well, they’ve been doing good, we can’t say it’s a poor start,” added Matlou.
“We just have to help each other and move forward. We are in this boat together. Whatever happens, we are all in. No one is supposed to jump off the train now, so we moving forward.”