3 ways Samir Nurkovic’s return has helped Kaizer Chiefs’ revival

Samir Nurkovic’s return to Kaizer Chiefs’ starting line-up has led to an improved run of results by the Soweto giants.

Or has it?

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Has Amakhosi’s five-match unbeaten streak been largely thanks to the Serbian’s return, or it it purely conincidental? Dean Boyle delves deeper.

Nurkovic returned to the fray a fortnight ago after a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury.

Meanwhile, after a horror start to their DStv Premiership campaign, Kaizer Chiefs are unbeaten in their last five league matches, having picked up 11 points from three wins and two draws during that period.

There’s no doubting any team would benefit was a player of the calibre of Samir Nurkovic in their line-up, not just from a goal-scoring point of view, but also the experience he offers and the confidence his team-mates have in him.

Below, the three main ways Samir Nurkovic’s return has helped Kaizer Chiefs’ revival:

Instant form

Samir Nurkovic provided an instant impact on the field, scoring the winner in a 1-0 victory against AmaZulu in his first match back. He then followed up with an assist in a 2-1 away win against Cape Town City.

The back-to-back victories gave Amakhosi some much-needed momentum, especially having been winless in seven league outings prior to that.

Kaizer Chiefs would go on to record a third consecutive win against TTM, before two draws in their most recent matches against Stellenbosch FC and Baroka FC.

Leadership

Samir Nurkovic possesses all the attributes of a leader both on and off the pitch, inspiring his team-mates through his positive attitude which has seen a lift in the tempo and belief of the rest of the Amakhosi squad.

Coach Gavin Hunt has entrusted him with the captain’s armband in both their most recent two matches, in preference to a number of other experienced campaigners such as Daniel Akpeyi, Lebogang Manyama, Eric Mathoho and Daniel Cardoso.

Creativity

“Kokota” is Samir Nurkovic’s nickname for a reason. It loosely translates to “keeps knocking” – which is exactly what the 28-year-old does best.

Nurkovic is consistently seen taking on defenders and is a great finisher who can also pass, shoot and dribble of either foot. He offers the creativity and clinical finishing that Kaizer Chiefs had been lacking all season.

Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs fans will be looking to Nurkovic to put in another match-winning performance in their next DStv Premiership clash – a Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 30 January.

Kick-off is at 15:30.

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