Van Heerden already enjoying Jonevret's tenure as Orlando Pirates coach

Orlando Pirates defender Marc van Heerden says he is already enjoying working with Swedish tactician Kjell Jonevret, who joined the club last month.

“It’s great working with him. He is a good coach. It’s very nice for me to be coached by someone with European experience for a change," Van Heerden told Goal.

“He has a great work ethic and makes the players feel comfortable. He is like a father-figure to all the players,” he indicated.

With Bucs struggling this season, Van Heerden backs Jonevret to take the team to greater heights.

“Yes, of course,” said Van Heerden when asked if Jonevret is the right man for the job. 

“He has won major trophies in Sweden. He had a big success with them (Djurgardens IF). So, I think he can do the same thing with us,” Van Heerden said.

“I believe that the will to win will make him succeed here. He has a very good track record and he makes the players believe in themselves. That will help us become successful under his guidance,” Van Heerden added.

Sunday's win over EC Bees was Jonevret’s first since joining the club and it sees them march into the last 16 of the Nedbank Cup.

Van Heerden, who joined Bucs from Chippa United, is enjoying life at the Soweto giants.

“I am settling in well, it’s a great club to be at. I have been welcomed nicely by everyone and I’m enjoying every minute so far,” Van Heerden concluded.