Velebayi backs Faiz Abrahams to make an impact at Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Asanele Velebayi believes new signing Faiz Abrahams will prove his value at the club, despite the 21-year-old still waiting to make his debut.

Abrahams joined Kaizer Chiefs earlier this month on a season-long loan from Stellenbosch, but has not yet featured after the club’s opening three league matches and their first-round MTN8 fixture.

The midfielder arrived at Naturena without having completed a pre-season programme, prompting coach Fernando da Cruz to ask for patience while the technical team works on a plan to get him up to full fitness.

Velebayi, however, is confident Abrahams will eventually make a significant contribution. The pair already know each other well, having both come through the Cape Town Spurs academy and played together during the 2023/24 season.

For Velebayi, the arrival of a familiar face is also a reminder that places in the Kaizer Chiefs team must be earned. He believes Abrahams’ presence will push him to maintain high standards and give his best.

“With Faiz, because I’ve known him also having him here is good because it helps you like give your best because [when] you know there’s competition,” said Velebayi.

“You can’t be comfortable in anything. So having Faiz is a positive thing because I know the magic that he has, and I know he’s going to help us a lot. I know he’s going to deliver.

“Obviously, I spoke to him. I told him the pressure is going to be high, but just try to control what you can, which is staying calm and give the best for the team.”

Velebayi said Abrahams had been made aware of the expectations that come with joining Kaizer Chiefs, while encouraging him to focus on the aspects of his game he can control.

The two players’ previous connection at Cape Town Spurs has helped Velebayi understand the qualities Abrahams can offer, and he said that familiarity has made the midfielder’s arrival a positive development for the squad.

Abrahams will now continue his efforts to reach the required fitness level before competing for selection under Da Cruz. Until then, Velebayi’s comments underline the belief within the squad that the new recruit can provide an important boost once he is ready to play.

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