Ex-Chiefs dribbling wizard defends Middendorp

Following continued criticism towards head coach Ernst Middendorp, a former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder has leapt to the German tactician’s defense.

Read: Radebe blasts Middendorp’s style of play at Chiefs

Middendorp has been given a stick by a section of the Chiefs faithful for his one-route football playing style, and has also already been linked with an exit from the club come season-end with a faction of the Chiefs board said to have grown frustrated by the German’ style of play.

Ekstein And Essien Wreaking Havoc In Azerbaijan
Hendrick Ekstein with Chelsea legend Michael Essien.
(Image: SoccerLaduma)

Now, former midfielder, Hendrick Ekstein who left the Naturena outfit at the beginning of the season after failing to agree to a new contract, believes Middendorp’s critics are not even Chiefs fans.

“I was playing under coach Steve and I did well whenever I was given a chance, and under coach Middendorp I was able to contribute more to the team, ” the Sabail FC player told veteran Sports Presenter Robert Marawa on MarawaTV.

“And he would explain to me why he took me off and how he expects me to play as a number 10.”

Ekstein, 29, who left South African shores for the Azerbaijani Premier League, introduced himself with impressive displays for his previous club Sabah FC before leaving to join Sabail six months later, where he now plays with Ghana and Chelsea legend Michael Essien.

“Most of the people that criticise the coach [Middendorp] are people who don’t even support Chiefs, ” ‘Pule’ added.

“And if any of the people that complain about the coach on social media which support Chiefs; they might not be happy with the team’s playing style under the coach.

“No matter what happens at Chiefs not everyone will be happy about the way the coach works, even if they win the league. One thing I know about him is he will do what benefits the team and his players, ” Ekstein said.

Once the league resumes, the Bekkersdal-born speedster will be out to help his side cement a respectable position on the log standings as they currently sit seventh in the eight-team league.