Five things Zwane must tackle to succeed at Chiefs

ARTHUR Zwane’s ascension to the Kaizer Chiefs throne has been earmarked as redemption for young coaches, who, at most, are deemed inexperienced to hold the fort at the “big three”.

Zwane’s role comes with pressure, given that he has to prove himself by winning trophies as soon as next season, following Chiefs’ fall from grace.

Chiefs have endured a seven-year trophyless run under five coaches in the last seven seasons.

That’s why Zwane will have to address his predecessors’ challenges to reclaim the glory days.Here are five things he needs to do to be successful.

Stand up for himself

Chiefs are a family business. The El Supremo is Kaizer Motaung, the father of Football Manager Bobby, Sporting Director Kaizer Junior, Marketing Director Jessica and Digital Manager Kemiso.

Having spent 22 years at Chiefs, Zwane can be regarded as one of Motaung’s children. But he needs to strike a balance between the two: being a loyal sibling and son and the head coach of Amakhosi.

He must stand up for himself in the boardroom and not be bullied into decisions that he’s uncomfortable with, although he must still respect the management as his bosses and family.

Be media savvy

Zwane has spoken candidly about a looming squad overhaul, saying some players are not fit to don the Glamour Boys’ jersey .

But as the leader, he should inspire confidence from all the players, regardless of how furious he may be following a bad day at the office.

Astute coaches will tell him: ‘When you make players feel important, they’ll want to play for you, and the dressing room will be happy as well. But if you start singling them out, there’ll be chaos to deal with.’

Change the mindset

The sooner Zwane realises he’s not dealing with teenagers, but fully grown men, husbands and bread winners, the sooner he will be able to create a healthy working environment.

Zwane’s passion for good football has seen him allow emotions get the better of him, especially when he was still coaching in the Diski.

But he has to take it easy on the players in the senior team.

As much as he’ll want the best out of his players week in and week out, he’s got to be their leader as well. In return, they’ll regard him as the big brother they want to play for.

Decide on Khune

Itumeleng Khune remains one of the best goalkeeper – if not the best that Chiefs has ever produced. But form, injuries and age have counted against him of late.

It’s true, goalies age like fine wine – if they are playing regularly. However Khune has been kicking his heels in the stands.

Khune still has one year remaining on his contract. Zwane has to advise him whether to continue fighting for the No. 1 spot if he’s still part of his plans or retire and help him to improve Amakhosi.

Balance the squad

Zwane’s knack of working with youngsters is well documented.

But that doesn’t mean he should play kids. No!

He needs to find the right balance between experienced players and youngsters.

His predecessor Stuart Baxter sidelined youngsters last season, prompting a reaction from Chiefs’ faithful who believed that they are the future of the club.

The likes of Nkosingiphile Ngcobo and Sabelo Radebe, both 22, are set to get game time under Zwane.

But Chiefs need the seniors to guide such players on and off the pitch if they are going to succeed.