[ad_1]
The Serbian striker will be out for the next six weeks but his teammate is not worried
Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Bernard Parker is not concerned that the absence of forward Samir Nurkovic could haunt Amakhosi during Saturday’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) season opener against Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium.
The two giants renew their rivalry after the Sundowns beat the Chiefs the 2019/20 league title on the final day of the season.
But the Chiefs are going into this battle without their point man, Nurkovic, who was their top scorer last season with 13 goals in the league.
Parker feels that coach Gavin Hunt has a lot of options to choose the players who could take on Nurkovic’s responsibilities.
“The coach has options,” Parker said according to Phakaaathi.
“Leonardo Castro came in and made the difference in the last game, and he will be better this week than last week, he is getting sharper. [Lazarous] Kambole is coming up, he’s showing that he can play, he can add a lot of value and don’t forget [Dumisani] Zuma.
“The coach… has to work around what he has now and see how he can get combinations and working relationships… between the attackers in the best possible way. [Lebogang] Manyama is back too, and there are exciting young talents that add a lot of value too. [Happy] Mashiane and [Nkosingiphile] Ngcobo is also showing that he is ready to play. “
Lebogang Manyama has returned from suspension along with midfielder Willard Katsande after missing last weekend’s MTN8 quarter-final triumph over Maritzburg United.
Midfielder Siphelele Ntshangase is also making a comeback after recovering from injury.
After the entire game lasted against Maritzburg, Parker enjoys his game under Hunt, who says he has reassigned him as No. 10.
“Everyone is working to be more effective. Now I’m playing a familiar role, which I’ve played throughout my career, ”Parker said.
“Being a number 10, supplying and also linking the game between the center of the field and the attack. It has worked, not just for me, but for others as well. It’s what the coach wants now, for everyone to play to their strengths, ”said Parker.
The last time the Mamelodi Sundowns and Chiefs met was in the PSL bio-bubble, with Downs beating their rivals 1-0.
