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Cape Town - Abel Shongwe has reiterated the notion of Kaizer Chiefs supporters for coach Steve Komphela to field Hendrick Ekstein in this weekend's Soweto derby.
Amakhosi face off against Orlando Pirates on Saturday at the FNB Stadium, having suffered a 3-1 loss at the hands of their fierce rivals just a week ago.
Following their disappointing defeat, Chiefs captain Simphiwe Tshabalala was subsequently dropped in midweek for the game against Golden Arrows and his replacement, Ekstein excelled in a more advanced midfield role as Komphela's side ran out 3-1 winners.
"That boy [Ekstein] can be the Maradona of South African football. He is one of hell of a player," Shongwe told KickOff.
"If he can keep his feet on the ground and a cool head he can go far in football.
"I have had a one-on-one conversation with the boy and told him the responsibility that comes with playing for a big team like Kaizer Chiefs and remaining disciplined."
The former Chiefs midfielder believes Ekstein is a player with big-match temperament and that Komphela will know how to utilize him effectively.
"Steve is a great tactician. He has shown that he believes in the boy. I pray that he fields him on Saturday," Shongwe added.
"He is the kind of player like 'Ace' Khuse, Jabu Pule and 'Scara' Ngobesi that can carry Chiefs in such games because he is a marvel to watch."
Kick-off is at 15:00.
