‘Panic signings can be a disaster’ – Chiefs recruitment boss defends transfer strategy

Kaizer Chiefs’ head of scouting and recruitment Tera Maliwa has come to the defence of the club’s transfer activities so far amid criticism from fans.

Chiefs have been slammed in recent transfer windows, including the current one, for signing players who are allegedly not good enough and letting go of those who end up flourishing elsewhere.

In the current window, due to close on September 22, Chiefs have brought in 10 players being Flavio Silva, Ethan Chislett, Nkanyiso Shinga, Paseka Mako, Thabiso Monyane, Siphesihle Ndlovu, Asanele Velebayi, Etiosa Ighodaro, Luke Baartman and Lebohang Maboe.

Maliwa defends Chiefs’ transfer activities

Monyane, Mako and Ndlovu have made the most impact while Silva opened his goal account on his debut last weekend but there had been criticism over his game while Chiefs fans have expressed reservations about some of the other players.

However, Maliwa believes the club, led by Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr and himself, are on the right track when it comes to transfers and cannot be swayed by what fans say.

“Transfer windows have become not easy at all. It’s easy for fans calling for SD [sporting director] and scouts to be sacked because they didn't make deadline day signings,” Maliwa posted on social media.

Recruitment boss wary of panic signings

“But panic signings can be a disaster that cause lasting damage. Need to consider strategy and ignore the noise.

“It’s easy to assume when you are over the fence and not 24/7 into the game. The SA market is 1/2 sided; it’s no longer the same. I think this is the right time to write my book. I’ve seen enough, enough hate.”

Chiefs have started the season well, winning four and drawing the other, to move joint top of the table and it remains to be seen if they will be in the market for further reinforcements before the window closes.