Kaizer Chiefs Kabelo Mahlasela, March 2018

Kaizer Chiefs' Kabelo Mahlasela heaps praise on new coach Giovanni Solinas

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Kabelo Mahlasela says he is enjoying life under new coach Giovanni Solinas and hopes to contribute to Amakhosi's cause with goals.

The former Bloemfontein Celtic attacker believes the coach's philosphy of playing the ball on the ground will suit his style of play.

Mahlasela was speaking ahead of their MTN8 Cup quarter-final clash against Free State Stars on Saturday evening at the FNB Stadium.

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Moreover, he also revealed that he worked hard during the pre-season to improve his understanding with fellow attackers in Siphiwe Tshabalala and Khama Billiat.

“The coach wants us to play the ball on the ground, he wants us to move it around going forward. His style will suit me because that is how I like playing. I like taking on players and creating scoring chances and scoring a few,” said Mahlasela to Phakaaathi.

“It felt good to be called on by the supporters. As a player I want to play. I want to help the team. It was my first official game for Chiefs and it was a big boost. The supporters calling for me means they know what it is that I offer when on the field,” he added.

“I clicked very well with Billiat and Shabba in pre-season… it is a matter of time for things to turn around. I would say it will take us two games to change things around. Every game is a final for me. I play to win and I always want to score,” continued the 27-year-old.

“Stars are a very physical side but as a player you need to not play like them and use your mind more than your body,” he concluded.

Having joined the Soweto giants last season, the Sebokeng born playmaker is one of the players tasked with turning Amakhosi's fortunes around this term as they want to lift a trophy or two.

However, he faces a still competition in his quest to find a spot in the starting eleven against the likes of Siphelele Ntshangase, Billiat as well as Tshabalala.

On the other hand, Chiefs will meet Ea Lla Koto hoping to avoid their second loss this week after their 3-1 loss to Bidvest Wits on Tuesday at home.

For Stars, the defending Nedbank Cup winning coach Luc Eymael will want to overcome Amakhosi again as he beat them in last season's Ke Yona Cup semi-final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

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