Middendorp sees promise in United squad 19 November 2009 Newly-signed Maritzburg United coach Ernst Middendorp is content that the team has a good mix of youthful talent and experienced campaigners.

Middendorp is still settling in to his new job, although he feels confident that his previous spell with Kaizer Chiefs has given him a good understanding of what to expect in the PSL.

“I have attended many matches and watched all the teams in that time, which makes it a bit easier coming to Maritzburg. I already know all the players’ names here and a bit about their strengths and weaknesses. And of course I have an idea how the other teams play,” he told the Witness.

The German-born coach is excited about the young talent at the club, and has also called upon the team’s more experienced players to take responsibility.

“I see a lot of good players and a lot of young talent — Felix Obada, Chilis [Madondo], JB [Ncubeni], even a player like Rudolf Bester coming from Namibia at 26, for whom it’s a new world.

“There is space for improvement — the players can be developed as individuals and as a team. I don’t think we can expect [midfielder] John Arwuah back before January, but other guys like Elias Ngwepe and Bheka Phakathi have to take over.

“Of course it’s all about how they react to the new coach. Everybody’s different — Gordon is different, [Pirates coach Ruud] Krol is different, I am different. I have a clear understanding of what I want from the players and we don’t have much time, so the players have to improve,” says Middendorp.

Middendorp won’t however have too much time to settle – his first mission awaiting him comes this Saturday, when the Team of Choice face a real test of their resolve as they come up against Absa Premiership champions, SuperSport United.

The game takes place at the Super Stadium in Pretoria, with kick off set for 15H30.