Kaizer Chiefs will be without striker Tashreeq Morris for today’s match after the 30-year-old picked up an injury last Saturday.
While the Soweto giants are still reeling from their narrow loss to Mamelodi Sundowns, they can take some solace in the fact that they were able to contain the league leaders far better than Orlando Pirates did in their 4-1 defeat a month ago. However, the Pirates are in a stronger position, sitting second on the log compared to Chiefs’ disappointing eighth-place position.
According to head coach Nasreddine Nabi, Morris should return in about a week:
“He’ll be out for maybe six, seven days,” Nabi told iDiski Times.
“Losing him was tough for us because he brings a lot to the team. He’s an excellent presser and doesn’t allow defenders to rest. After he went off, the center-backs had more time on the ball and felt a bit more comfortable.
“Morris is also a classic number nine who can hold the ball up, allowing the team to push forward and attack. He’s a key player when it comes to finishing crosses into the box, and his absence impacted our game plan.”
Nabi also addressed recent criticism from Pitso Mosimane, who had targeted Kaizer Chiefs. Nabi responded firmly, stating, “I’m not here for the money.”
“People talk too much in the media. My salary—I don’t discuss it. But every three days, I receive offers from top clubs with salaries three times what I earn here.”
“I’m committed to my mission at Kaizer Chiefs. I respect this club deeply, and I’m confident in what I’m doing. I’m not easily shaken by criticism, and I will get this team back to where it belongs.”
He also added, “Criticism is part of the job. But when it comes from fellow coaches, it feels like a lack of respect. That’s the most difficult part for me. But I know what I’m doing, and I will make it work.”
