Posted in News on Jul 07, 2004.
They were all introduced as part of what the club termed the ‘Hottest Unveiling this winter’, at a press conference held at the club’s headquarters in Naturena on Wednesday.
Sensing a hectic season ahead, which includes defending the League Premiership, plus competing in the African Champions League, Amakhosi strengthened their squad by calling back dangerous Simphiwe Mbambo from Dynamos and swiftly acquiring the services of Mbambo’s former team mate, David Mathebula whose pace and vision is a marvel to watch.
Alongside these experienced players is 17 year-old Papi Mngomezulu from Alexandra amateur side Sheffield United.
Speaking before the announcement, club chairman Kaizer Motaung said: “Following the splendid season we had last time around, there is nothing as fulfilling as acquiring the services of the kind of players we have for our future plans.
"As you know, we did not have an international trip this time around as we did last year with the Peace Cup but our plans for the Vodacom Challenge, the developments in our technical staff and the introduction of these players is indicative of our desire to bring back the glory years to Kaizer Chiefs, but I must warn that there will be more surprises in Mafikeng come Sunday."
In outlining the season’s plans Amakhosi coach Ted Dumitru said: ”Bit by bit all missing pieces of the puzzle are coming together nicely if you look at these players we’ve just acquired.
"At training they look determined to add value to my motto for this season, which is 'Improved Professionalism' and soon people will see what we intend making of this squad."
Dumitru should be understood for his determination, taking into consideration that the club has also called back former Santos coach Farouk Khan to work as assistant with Doctor Khumalo and Ace Khuse. The latter is on a level one coaching course in Limpopo at the moment.
As part of the changes at Naturena, S'busiso Dlamini was released to join his former club Black Leopards, Jabu Pule joined SV Mattersburg in Austria, Brian Baloyi moved to Sundowns and Stanton Fredericks is still to confirm his new overseas club.
Other transfers will be made known in due course.
Amakhosi are scheduled to play the Vodacom Challenge 2003 finalists TP Mazembe of the DR Congo in the first game of this year's competition at 12h30 on Sunday, while compatriots Orlando Pirates will do battle with AS Vita Club, also from DR Congo at 15h30.
All the matches will be played at the Mmabatho stadium in Mafikeng with ‘Uyez’ Umoya’ tickets selling for R30 at all Computicket outlets.
