‘CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE IS VITAL’

Having qualified to the CAF Champions League group stages for the first time in the club’s history, Chiefs should look to use the opportunity to build up the character and experience necessary to on and compete on all fronts next season, according to Daine Klate. “I think it’s in good stead for them, I think the Champions League should be used as a springboard to prepare the team more than anything else – the physical and mental demands of the game, which is slightly different to the PSL and the difficult conditions when you travel away especially,” says the retired winger, who went on to finish as runner-up to Al Ahly in the 2013 CAF Champions League.

“But I think it will be a vital experience, specifically for the youngsters coming through at the club at the moment just to be present. I’m pretty sure the Chiefs fans would understand, yes, they must compete on all fronts because they are a big team but, when you look at the Champions League, you have to be realistic. “You have to consider it’s the first time the club and Gavin is going to the group stages, and for most of the players as well. The expectations in the league already is not what I think Chiefs would have hoped for, but as far as CAF goes it gives them a chance to work on extra things in preparation for next season, which I think they’ll have an eye on already now.

“So, I think the Champions League experience will be vital for them going forward.”