Ndengane backing Steve to raise his game

Defender feels criticism of coach’s methods unfair

Bloemfontein Celtic defender Alfred Ndengane feels that working with Steve Komphela could take his game to the next level.

The 31-year-old has been a pillar in the Celtic defence for the last four years and is perhaps one of the most underrated defenders in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

With Komphela having been a top defender in his playing days, Ndengane is eager to learn from him and become the best in the land.

“If you are coached by someone who has played football, and [in] your position, is a plus for me,” Ndengane said.

“He knows what we go through as defenders because he has been there. I will listen to the coach’s instructions and become a better player.”

Komphela had a barren three seasons at Amakhosi that ended unceremoniously in April, when he was fired.

After Giovanni Solinas was appointed as a replacement, Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune revealed some players failed to grasp Komphela’s methods.

Ndengane came to his coach’s defence, saying that if a footballer does not understand something then they should ask.

“People see things differently. If a person does not understand what he is trying to do, the door is open to ask if you don’t understand.”

The Free State club have had an outstanding start to the season, where they are second in the standings with 13 points from four wins and a draw.

Phunya Sele Sele take on Maritzburg United at the Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday (3pm). Celtic expect a tough outing when they host the Team of Choice.

“It’s going to be a difficult game because they will be fighting to get out of where they are right now and we are second on the table. We must prepare ourselves for a tough [match]. The coach has come in and changed the mentality, that we concentrate for 90 minutes. After scoring a goal, before halftime and [at the] start of second half is when teams concede the most.”