Nigerian keeper gets high-rating in South Africa
Still basking the euphoria of his team heart-warming victory over Orlando Pirates, the Kaizer Chiefs coach , Ernst Middendorp, has praised Super Eagles goalkeeper, Daniel Akpeyi, to high heavens, saying it has really improved a lot.
The Nigerian became a instant hero at Moses Mabhida Stadium when the Chiefs overwhelmed Orlando Pirates on 4-2 penalties to qualify for the Telkom Knockout semifinals on Saturday.
According to Kaizer Chiefs coach Akpeyi has endured so much criticism from the supporters since filling in for injured club favourite, Itumeleng Khune.
His recent performances, especially against Pirates, have meant he has finally gained some trust and respect from the Amakhosi faithful, who were singing his praises after his two penalty saves helped add more woe to their biggest enemies.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles technical crew should search no further for a dependable goalkeeper as Akpeyi continue to maintain his top form with Kaizer Chiefs.
The heart-warming outing has further confirmed his position in his country’s senior national team, even when the technical crew are still looking for a suitable number one goalkeeper.
Eagles Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr, had been working on how to organise the goalkeeping department before the team next international outing.
At the same time, Chiefs Coach said he was proud of Akpeyi’s performance adding that the keeper is more mature in the post despite all the criticisms.
“He’s very grown up, he always performed and I think sometimes you have people who say the wall is grey and some other people for some odd reason they say no the wall is green,” Middendorp said.
“I understand, he just came in to help the club with Itumeleng Khune injured, he had to improve and be better, and I think there’s a certain institution who worked on these issues.”
Middendorp also recognised goalkeeper coach Lee Baxter for his work in keeping Akpeyi focused despite the noise on the outside throughout his career at Chiefs.
Read Also:Telkom Cup knockout stage: Akpeyi turns hero for Kaizer Chiefs, saves 2 penalties
“Like I said, he’s grown up and well experienced, and has played in the World Cup. Let’s not forget the work done by the goalkeeping coach Lee Baxter, it’s a result of having a well-qualified goalkeeping coach,” he added.
“Like I said, he’s grown up and well experienced, and has played in the World Cup. Let’s not forget the work done by the goalkeeping coach Lee Baxter, it’s a result of having a well-qualified goalkeeping coach,” he added.
“Despite outside criticism he’s been performing and he’s a very special player.”