With opinions divided on Kaizer Chiefs’ new signing, Tashreeq Morris, former Bafana Bafana legend and renowned football analyst Doctor Khumalo has weighed in with his honest assessment of the young forward’s potential at the club.
Morris, who joined Chiefs ahead of the 2024-25 season from Stellenbosch FC, has already had his fair share of praise and criticism. Some fans have been quick to highlight his exciting potential, particularly after his impressive performances at Stellenbosch, where he was a key player. However, others have raised doubts about whether he can translate that form to the pressure-filled environment of Kaizer Chiefs, a club where expectations are always high and the spotlight is never far away.
Doctor Khumalo, who has witnessed the rise and fall of countless players throughout his illustrious career, has given his take on Morris, offering insights into what the forward needs to succeed at one of South Africa’s biggest football clubs. Known for his deep understanding of the game and his no-nonsense approach, Khumalo has never been one to shy away from sharing his views.
Speaking to the media, Khumalo was cautious but optimistic about Morris’ potential. “Tashreeq is a talented player, no doubt,” Khumalo began. “He has shown that he can score goals and contribute offensively, which is exactly what Chiefs need. But there’s a big difference between playing at a club like Stellenbosch and being at Kaizer Chiefs, where the pressure is much higher. It’s a different ball game.”
Khumalo acknowledged Morris’ technical ability, highlighting his flair and comfort on the ball, which were evident in his performances at Stellenbosch. “He’s a quick player, he’s got good footwork, and he’s capable of finishing chances. But what Chiefs fans need to understand is that it’s not just about individual brilliance. He’ll need to adapt to the tactical demands of a much bigger club, and most importantly, handle the expectations that come with wearing that gold and black jersey,” said Khumalo.
The former Bafana Bafana midfielder emphasized that Chiefs, despite their recent struggles, are still one of the most high-profile clubs in South African football, and that players like Morris need to have a certain mindset to thrive. “There’s no room for hesitation at Chiefs. If he’s not mentally strong, if he doesn’t quickly adapt to the speed of play and the demands of the team, then he could easily fade into the background. But if he has the right mentality, he can succeed.”
Khumalo didn’t just offer criticism; he also gave Morris some advice on how to navigate his time at Chiefs. “Patience is key. He’s not going to start every game, and that’s something he needs to accept,” Khumalo stated. “When you’re at a club like Chiefs, there’s always competition for places. But he must focus on developing his game, working hard in training, and learning from the more experienced players around him.”
Khumalo also pointed out that one of Morris’ strengths is his versatility in attack. “He can play both as a central striker or out wide, and that’s a valuable asset for Chiefs, especially under the current coaching setup. He needs to use that flexibility to his advantage. The more positions he can cover, the more chances he’ll get to prove himself.”
Despite the concerns, Khumalo did not dismiss the potential that Morris has to make a mark at Chiefs. “I see a lot of promise in him. If he stays focused, works on his weaknesses, and listens to the coaches, he has a bright future ahead,” Khumalo concluded.
For Chiefs, who have been looking for consistency in their attacking department, Morris represents both a risk and an opportunity. While the early signs have been mixed, the club’s management and supporters are hoping that he can step up and deliver when needed most. But whether he can make the leap from a mid-table side to a top contender remains to be seen.
In summary, Doctor Khumalo’s assessment of Tashreeq Morris offers a balanced perspective. While acknowledging Morris’ undeniable talent, Khumalo has stressed the need for patience, focus, and mental toughness in order for him to succeed at Kaizer Chiefs. Morris’ future at the club could depend on how well he adapts to the increased pressure and intensity of playing for a club with such a rich history and passionate fan base. If he takes the advice to heart and continues to develop, the 23-year-old could very well become a key figure in Chiefs’ future, but only time will tell if he can live up to the expectations.
