Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabiso “Skapie” Malatsi has delivered a blunt message to the club’s current players, urging them to improve their performances and demonstrate greater commitment as they prepare for a crucial CAF Confederation Cup encounter against Red Arrows.

Speaking exclusively to the Siya crew, Malatsi questioned whether several players in the current squad were performing at the level expected of a club with Chiefs’ stature. He called on them to show respect for the badge and give their best for club chairman Dr Kaizer Motaung.

“I have a problem with most of the players in the current Kaizer Chiefs squad, and they need to seriously improve to get to the level required to play for such a big club and to show that they respect the badge,” Malatsi said.

His criticism comes after a period in which the team’s performances and results have attracted scrutiny from supporters and former players.

Malatsi also referred to Motaung’s birthday the previous week, arguing that the players should have been motivated to deliver performances that would make the chairman proud.

“You would expect the players to fight out there on the field to make the chairman happy. You don’t see it happening, and you ask yourself questions about their commitment,” he said.

The former midfielder added that, in his view, the team’s recent results could be disappointing for Motaung rather than giving him reason to celebrate.

“I appeal to the guys to do it for the chairman and make him happy. That can’t be too much to ask for, please, gents,” Malatsi said.

He explained that playing to make the chairman proud was an approach he associated with his own generation and previous Chiefs players.

However, Malatsi’s immediate priority is the club’s upcoming continental fixture. Chiefs are scheduled to host Red Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday for the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup tie.

The Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates is also approaching, giving the team another major occasion on which supporters will expect a strong performance.

Malatsi urged the players to focus first on beating Red Arrows and securing qualification for the next round before turning their attention to Pirates.

His message places the emphasis on results, commitment and the expectations that come with representing one of South Africa’s most recognisable football clubs. Chiefs must now translate those demands into a performance on the pitch if they are to advance in the continental competition.

Source: https://x.com/soccer_laduma/status/2113223952155725834?s=46