Doctor Khumalo refers to Orlando Pirates star Thalente Mbatha to defend Kaizer Chiefs-bound Tashreeq Morris after Amakhosi fans criticisms - 'He might surprise us'

Doctor Khumalo has cited Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha to encourage Kaizer Chiefs fans to warmly embrace Tashreeq Morris amidst his reported move from SuperSport United.

Mbatha was deemed surplus to requirements at Matsatsantsa and was subsequently loaned to Bucs in January last year before making a permanent transfer six months later.

The 24-year-old talent has since become a crucial member of Jose Riveiro's star-studded team and a regular inclusion in Hugo Broos' Bafana Bafana squad.

Khumalo, a well-respected South African football legend, firmly believes that Morris could shine at Chiefs just as Mbatha has done at Pirates.

"We talk about Morris, he has played nine games and scored two goals for SuperSport United. I would like to believe that we don't have to be harsh or look at the boy's journey and think that he might not make it at Chiefs," Khumalo said on SoccerZone.

"He might surprise us because there are so many players in other teams, like Thalente Mbata for that matter who came from SuperSport and now look where he is. 

"He is now in the national team (Bafana Bafana). So, I like Moris because he is an outright striker, he does things simply, and he does not complicate things," he added.

"But only if they can give him what we call suppliers (he can deliver) because if you don't have those people then what is the use of getting strikers."

Reports indicate that Morris has successfully undergone his medical at Chiefs and has already secured a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Naturena-based giants.

The Soweto giants have also been consistently linked with Bafana Bafana international Oswin Appollis, Pyramids' Fiston Mayele, and Swiss forward Ruben del Campo amongst others.

However, since the January transfer window opened, the Glamour Boys have not signed any new player to add to Nasreddine Nabi's squad despite significant demand from their supporters.

Chiefs are anticipated to announce Morris as their first signing of the current transfer period and other expected new signings before the transfer window closes on January 28.

Amakhosi will face off against Free Agents FC in the Nedbank Cup last 32 match on Sunday, January 26, while SuperSport will face Magesi FC two days after the Chiefs match.