Da Cruz: Mayo and Ighodaro still being eased in at Chiefs

Fernando da Cruz has addressed why two of Kaizer Chiefs’ forwards, Khanyisa Mayo and new signing Etiosa Ighodaro, have not yet become regular fixtures in his attack, according to iDiski Times.

Mayo still building fitness

Mayo joined the club from Cape Town City and came to Naturena with high expectations, having built a name as one of the better-known strikers in the domestic game. His playing time so far has been limited, however, as he works towards full match fitness.

Da Cruz indicated that the striker is close to being ready, but said he will not hurry him back. The coach explained that some matches are physically demanding enough that Mayo cannot simply be thrown into them. In the coach’s words, the player was not physically prepared for the type of game in question and has to ease his way in.

Ighodaro must learn the system

The picture is different for Ighodaro, whose challenge is more tactical than physical. Da Cruz said the new striker “needs to understand the game model”, and that the coaching staff will work with him on it.

The Frenchman still rates the forward. He described Ighodaro as someone who “can be another solution” for Amakhosi, though his comments suggest that grasping what the team demands of its players will count for as much as fitness before the striker can make a lasting impact.

The Pirates factor

Da Cruz tied his thinking to the demands of big matches. He pointed to meetings with Orlando Pirates as an example, saying the closing stages of such games are “full of intensity” and that opponents bring on fresh players of real quality. For that reason, he said, Chiefs have to be physically ready for the whole contest.

His remarks make clear that depth and conditioning matter as much to him as individual talent. A squad with quality players is not enough if they cannot sustain their level against sides that raise the tempo late on.

What it means for supporters

Chiefs fans hoping to see Mayo and Ighodaro in the starting line-up should expect a gradual process. Da Cruz gave no return dates or match targets for either player, so the timing of their wider involvement remains open. His comments suggest that Mayo’s fitness and Ighodaro’s tactical learning will largely determine how soon they feature more often.

This story is based on reporting by iDiski Times.