Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Muhsin Ertugral has leapt to Khama Billiat’s defense after what has been a difficult few seasons for the Zimbabwean international since he joined the Amakhosi.
The 32-year-old star joined the Soweto giants from the DStv Premiership reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns in 2018 and was hailed at the time as one of Chiefs most exciting signings ever. However, Billiat has not lived up to expectations in the jersey of the Amakhosi. Registering only 24 goals and 27 assists in all competitions in almost five seasons has been a disappointment to the Chiefs faithful.
Despite having registered four assists across all competitions this season, the Zimbabwean striker has been far from his best for Chiefs. He has failed to influence proceedings in his side’s recent goalless draw against AmaZulu in the MTN8 semifinal and against Orlando Pirates in the Carling Black Label respectively.
Billiat has been heavily criticized by supporters for the last few seasons for not delivering. However, the Turkish mentor has rubbished claims that Billiat has not been in good form of late, claiming that he lacks support from his teammates and that at Chiefs, there is insufficient quality in their squad.
“It’s important to understand that in any circumstances as present at Chiefs, Khama can’t play alone. He needs the structure and supply in a certain format to call up his best ability,” Ertugral told ThisIsFootball.Africa.
“It’s very disturbing that such a kind of player is talked into the ground. Obviously, he requires quality around him. There is no quality around. There are not a lot of Billiat’s running around in SA soccer.
“But there is a club situation and policy that is not for the public eye. It’s about finding an approach that can accommodates Billiat to give his best. There are good players around him, but they need an approach that benefits him and the team.”
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