Daniel Akpeyi is a top class goalkeeper – Kaizer Chiefs coach

Kaizer Chiefs’ head coach Ernst Middendorp has heaped plaudits on Nigeria goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi following his performance for the club in last weekend’s Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates. Akpeyi, 31, completed a one-and-a-half year move to the Amakhosi from fellow ABSA Premier League club, Chippa United during the winter transfer window. He put up a solid showing in his debut for the club despite criticisms from some supporters over his signing. Middendorp expressed his satisfaction at the stocky gloveman’s performance despite conceding an equalising goal in the final 10 minutes and further outlined the club’s stance surrounding his role when Itumeleng Khune eventually returns in June. The German also felt the decision to sign Akpeyi was justified in his Soweto Derby debut and believes Khune will have stiff competition next season. “Chiefs’ management had a very clear profile – not to bring someone in that would be in competition for second or third-choice, we have enough in this department,” he told kick-off. com. “It was a very clear understanding, already looking into next season, to have two top number-one keepers.” “Judging from what we’ve seen from Daniel in this short period and carrying such expectations in a derby with a massive crowd, to show the calmness and structure despite not being fully familiar with the team, he handled it very well. “We definitely got confirmation that Kaizer Chiefs, from the management’s side, made the right decision to bring him in.”