Super Eagles goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi, faces a big challenge to become Kaizer Chiefs of South Africa’s first choice goalkeeper.
Akpeyi, who was signed from Chippa United FC during the last transfer window, Tribunesport understands, is facing tough opposition from Virgil Vries, Bruce Bvuma, Brylon Lee Petersen and South Africa’s national team goalkeeper and captain, Itumeleng Khune, for the club’s number one shirt.
Our correspondent gathered that Khune’s injury and the intervention of Kaizer Chiefs’ former midfielder, Ntokozo Sikhakhane, were the reasons Akpeyi was given the nod to make his debut against Orlando Pirates early last month.
Sikhakhane, in support of Akpeyi, advised Kaiser Chiefs coach, Ernst Middendorp, to consider giving Akpeyi the chance to make his debut in the Soweto derby. “I think Amakhosi [Kaizer Chiefs] should give him the chance and I am sure he would also want to win the supporters trust,” Sikhakhane had told Siya TV crew.
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Sikhakhane believes that Vries’ confidence level is low at the moment after series of mistakes in previous matches, hence the need to start Akpeyi. “The supporters have been booing Vries, the media have been reporting that Chiefs are going to release him. You don’t need a player like that in a derby,” he added.
Akpeyi, who is standing in for Khune, was expected to use the opportunity to prove himself to the club’s German tactician that he is capable to be his number one shot stopper.
The former Warri Wolves player was rated 7/10 in the Soweto derby which ended 1-1.
Ironically Akpeyi himself committed a blunder against Polokwane City FC last Saturday which gifted the Rise and Shine a draw, though Chiefs’coach Middendorp insists that the Nigerian will be in goal when the club face Highlands Park this weekend.