Former PSL Star Backs Cavin Johnson for Kaizer Chiefs Permanent Coaching Role

Former PSL Star Backs Cavin Johnson for Kaizer Chiefs Permanent Coaching Role

Robert Abong'o
updated at February 21, 2024 at 7:19 AM
In this article:
R. Ngambi
Black Leopards logoM-
Platinum Stars logo
Platinum Stars
South Africa
23
Kaizer Chiefs logo
Kaizer Chiefs
South Africa
24
South Africa Premier Soccer League logo
ZA Premier League
South Africa
  • Robert Ng’ambi wants Cavin Johnson appointed as Kaizer Chiefs' permanent coach
  • The former Platinum Stars midfielder hailed Johnson for good player management
  • The 67-year-old gaffer took over AmaKhosi after Molefi Ntseki’s departure last year

Former PSL star, Robert Ng’ambi, has outlined three essential qualities that make Cavin Johnson his ideal candidate for the Kaizer Chiefs coaching position.

The 65-year-old tactician was thrown into the deep end with his appointment as interim coach of the AmaKhosi in October 2023.

Johnson was initially trusted to steady the ship in the short-term but is now approaching four months as caretaker manager of the Premier Soccer League giants.

Former PSL star Robert Ng’ambi and Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson .Photos: Lefty Shivambu and Phill Makagoe.
Robert Ng’ambi and Kaizer Chiefs interim coach, Cavin Johnson, worked together at Platinum Stars. Photos: Lefty Shivambu and Phill Makagoe.
Source: Getty Images

The Soweto giants are expected to appoint a new permanent head coach before the end of the year.

The ex-Black Leopards skipper voiced his support for Johnson, whom he described as a standout figure from their time together at Platinum Stars.

Ng’ambi highlighted the coach's exceptional skills in player management.

"He has what it takes to coach Kaizer Chiefs if they can give him a chance. He knows how to motivate the players. He knows how to bring the best out of his players. You can see this from the short period he has been with the team," said the Malawian, as quoted by South African.

Moreover, Ng’ambi stressed the importance of the manager’s tactical acumen, drawing from their shared experiences.

Reflecting on their successful stint at Platinum Stars, where they clinched the 2023 MTN Cup and Telecom Knockout Cup titles, he underscored Johnson’s extensive coaching background as a significant advantage.

Johnson unhappy with result vs Royal AM

Johnson assumed the interim role at Chiefs following Molefi Ntseki’s departure, and his tenure has yielded promising results. However, the latest was a barren draw against Royal AM in the DTSV Premiership on February 18.

The AmaKhosi gaffer expressed his disappointment at the outcome, saying it was not the result the team would have wanted after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 break.

"We need to be better on the ball because we are not just a normal team. We are a special team, and I want us to play special football. We go away with the draw, and we will take the point, but we need to do better," said Johnson, as quoted by Times Live.

Despite facing some challenges early on, Johnson has led the team to four wins and two losses in eight league matches since October 24, 2023.

Johnson gives update on Itumeleng Khune

Sports Brief has also previously reported that Johnson provided an update on Itumeleng Khune, who was suspended by Kaizer Chiefs in December last year.

The veteran was forced onto the sidelines after reportedly arriving for team training while under the influence of alcohol and he has not featured since.

Authors
Robert Abong'o photo
Robert Abong'o
Editor - Africa Team
Tags
South Africa