Kaizer Chiefs have built significant depth in the wide areas of their squad, with the arrival of Phili strengthening their attacking options despite the recent sale of Ashley Du Preez.
The Amakhosi now have several players capable of operating from the flanks, giving them a range of possibilities as the new campaign develops. One option is to use the right-footed Asanele Velebayi as an inverted winger on the left, while Phili’s ability to use both feet also makes him a strong candidate for that position.
Pule Mmodi, who is often used on the left side of the attack, could consequently find himself further down the pecking order. The competition for places has increased, with Chiefs able to consider different profiles and combinations in the wide attacking positions.
Phili, who is 21, is known for his low centre of gravity, trickery and accurate shooting. The move has clearly excited him, particularly because of his longstanding connection with the club and its supporters.
“Everyone at home supports Amakhosi, so I thought it would be a good move for me to join the team I grew up supporting and being here feels like my dream has really come true.”
The depth available to head coach Kaizer Chiefs was also reflected in the starting line-up for the opening match of the campaign. Chiefs made some unexpected selection choices against newcomers Kruger United on matchday one, including Ethan Chislett in the number 10 position and Luke Baartman in a wide attacking role.
Those decisions helped Chiefs begin the campaign with a 3-1 victory. Mfundo Vilakazi also contributed an assist, and that performance means he can expect to retain his place for the club’s MTN8 meeting with Arrows.
Chiefs will host Arrows at FNB Stadium on Sunday, 9 August, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00. The match will provide another opportunity to assess how the club uses its expanding group of wide attacking players, as well as whether the players who impressed in the opening fixture can maintain their positions.
With Phili now added to the squad and Velebayi, Mmodi, Baartman and Vilakazi all involved in the attacking picture, the wide areas appear to be where Chiefs possess their most notable depth. The options also allow for different approaches, including the use of a natural right-footer from the left or a two-footed player in the same area.
The recent departure of Ashley Du Preez has therefore not left Chiefs short of attacking width. Instead, the options available to the club suggest that competition for those positions will be one of the defining selection issues at the start of the season.
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