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Chiefs players in a huddle. Alexander Photo: Twitter @KaizerChiefs

Kaizer Chiefs: The midfielder who will fix Amakhosi’s problems

Kaizer Chiefs still haven’t found a natural heir to Njabulo Blom’s throne. We’ve found a man from the PSL who could be the answer.

by James Freemantle

20-05-2023 09:14

in Premier Soccer League

Chiefs players in a huddle. Alexander Photo: Twitter @KaizerChiefs

Kaizer Chiefs are in need of a long-term solution in the centre of the park who can bridge the gap between defence and attack. Those types of players don’t grow on trees though.

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Kaizer Chiefs need a number 8 in midfield

Since the departure of Njabulo Blom, Kaizer Chiefs have missed the presence of a compact, technically excellent central midfielder who’s competent in all phases of play. Yusuf Maart is known more for his work in the final third, whereas Samkelo Zwane is a deeper-lying midfield number 6.

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Although Jabaar isn’t a box-to-box midfielder necessarily, he’s still a hybrid between a 10, 8 and 6 and is comfortable with the ball at his feet in any portion of the pitch. The fact that he’s a hybrid between existing options Zwane and Maart makes him an even more attractive proposition. Additionally, coach Arthur Zwane would be able to experiment with different combinations if Chiefs signed the Nigerian. Chiefs really would be getting two players in one.

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What’s so good about Jabaar?

Ibraheem Jabaar is a tenacious ball-winner but he’s also got the tactical smartness to carry the ball upfield when the situation calls for it. He’s also a technically-astute passer of the ball over short distances. At 20 years old, he’s only getting better and would also have massive potential resale value.

Is there a better central midfield option in the PSL right now for Amakhosi than Ibraheem Jabaar? We doubt it. If so, let’s hear it in the comments.

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