Doctor Khumalo reflects on Ditlhokwe's shock exit from Kaizer Chiefs - 'He was one of the players the coach didn’t really see well'

Kaizer Chiefs confirmed the departure of Thatayaone Ditlhokwe to Libyan side Al Ittihad on Valentine's Day despite the Botswana international apparently settling in well under coach Nasreddine Nabi.

His exit surprised many, as he was forming a solid defensive unit alongside Reeve Frosler, Miguel Inacio, and Rushwin Dortley.

Ditlhokwe’s departure raises questions about whether the team has adequate cover in defence and now club legend Doctor Khumalo has weighed in on the transfer, analysing its impact on Chiefs and the player's career.

“Ditlhokwe was one of the players the coach didn’t really see well, and he even played the youngster [Nkosana] Mbuthu if you can remember in Bloemfontein but it’s a good venture for Ditlhokwe,” said Khumalo on SABC 1’s Soccer Zone as reported by iDiski Times.

“He is 26 years old he has featured for 32 games for Kaizer Chiefs and only played for SuperSport and Kaizer Chiefs.

“Yes, they can [do without him] like the coach is saying, I mean it doesn’t mean it’s closed shop because [Happy] Mashiane is there, [Edmilson] Dove hasn’t played.

“And I think where he is he is thinking that I have to make sure that I take this position.

“But for him [Ditlhokwe] to go to Libya I think it’s another step in his journey.”

Ditlhokwe’s exit has opened the door for other defenders to step up with Happy Mashiane impressing in the Nedbank Cup clash against Chippa United and Bradley Cross providing cover in defence.

Edmilson Dove, who was recently registered, is another strong option for the position after his recovery from a long term injury suffered in pre-season camp.

After a shocking 4-1 defeat to SuperSport United, Amakhosi face a daunting task ahead as they must now prepare to take on Mamelodi Sundowns, who are dominating the league.

Sundowns have already thrashed Chiefs 4-0 in a cup competition in early November, adding to the pressure.

Amakhosi will need to regroup quickly and find a way to restore their confidence ahead of the clash with The Brazilians as a strong performance against the perennial league champions could be a turning point for their season.