Calls for Kaizer Chiefs to drop captain Brandon Petersen have intensified, with a club legend advising a spell out of the team. Icon Zebulon 'Sputla' Nhlapo has publicly urged the technical team to consider resting the goalkeeper, whose recent form has drawn criticism.
Nhlapo suggested a break would benefit both the player and the club. "Petersen may be the captain, but holding the captaincy does not exempt him from the bench," Nhlapo said. He added a blunt assessment: "You can't have an underperforming captain."
The pressure follows a costly misjudgement by Petersen that was cited as the primary reason for Amakhosi's elimination from the MTN8 competition. Despite visible signs of fatigue and a noticeable decline, the goalkeeper has started consistently in the league and domestic cups this season.
Kaizer Chiefs sit fourth in the Premier Soccer League, unbeaten in their last five outings. Their recent form reads two wins and three draws, a run that includes a draw with Polokwane City last weekend where Petersen scored an own goal.
Nhlapo's comments put the spotlight on head coach Fernando da Cruz's selection decisions. The club has an alternative in Renaldo Leaner, a goalkeeper who joined the Glamour Boys but has yet to see significant action. Petersen, who previously played for Bidvest Wits, has been a mainstay for many seasons.
The debate comes as Chiefs prepare for a vital league encounter against Golden Arrows at the Princess Magogo Stadium this Sunday. The team will be looking to close a gap to leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. Check the latest squad news ahead of the match.
