Maritzburg confirm Middendorp return
Ernst Middendorp has been named as the new coach of DStv Premiership side Maritzburg United as he returns for a fourth spell in charge of the KwaZuluNatal side. Maritzburg made the announcement on Thursday having 24 hours earlier placed Delron Buckley in temporary charge.
“We extend a warm welcome home to Ernst and we look forward to renewing what has always been an amicable relationship,” club chairman Farook Kadodia said.
“At this point, after a tough start to the season, some stability is crucial. With Ernst knowing the club inside out, understanding the culture of the team, we are confident that he’s the best man for the job and will be able to hit the ground running.
“We believe his temperament, his intricate knowledge of our club, and his vast experience over many years in the Premier Soccer League, is what the team needs right now. We trust that together with Ernst, everyone at the club will work hard and pull together in the same direction to get this season back on track.”
Maritzburg host SuperSport United in the DStv Premiership on Friday following the axing of Eric Tinkler as the side lost their fifth game in a row against fellow strugglers Black Leopards last weekend.
That was part of a run of 12 games without a win dating back to the end of last season, which forced a change in thinking from the club’s management.
Middendorp was only unveiled as coach of Ethiopian Premier League side St George last month after leaving Kaizer Chiefs having been pipped to the South African league title on the final day of the 2019-20 season. - Mzansi Football