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Johannesburg - Kaizer Chiefs coach Vladimir Vermezovic has slammed the Premier Soccer League for neglecting the safety of players after Itumeleng Khune needed serious medical attention following a clash of heads with an opponent on Wednesday night, reports The Sowetan.
Speaking ahead of their Nedbank Cup last 16 match against Black Leopards tomorrow, Vermezovic said after the Fabrice Muamba incident in the English Premiership, the PSL should be ahead when it came to the players well-being on the pitch.
"There was no oxygen mask and no doctor at the stadium except for the Chiefs doctor," said Vermezovic.
"Even the stretcher was too hard for a spine and neck injury.
"The health of the player is more important than the game.
"South Africa must be a step ahead compared to other African countries with such matters. We have just hosted a World Cup and we have beautiful venues, but we need to care more about our players. Our doctor will send a report to the PSL about his observations."
Khune collided with Golden Arrows striker Thamsanqa Gabuza in an aerial tussle, and the Chiefs goalkeeper came off second best.
The match was delayed for about 10 minutes as the medical staff treated the unconscious Khune. He was taken to hospital.
"Khune should be back in action in about 10 days. But 10 days is about three to four matches. Fortunately, he's a strong guy," said Vermezovic.
Vermezovic said Chiefs had more injury problems besides Khune: "Thomas Sweswe and Lucky Khune are also not available (but) Siphiwe Tshabalala is back from suspension.
"We must be aggressive and our attitude must be very positive when we play against Leopards."
Leopards coach Vladislav Heric is upbeat after their 2-1 victory over Santos on Wednesday night.
Speaking ahead of their Nedbank Cup last 16 match against Black Leopards tomorrow, Vermezovic said after the Fabrice Muamba incident in the English Premiership, the PSL should be ahead when it came to the players well-being on the pitch.
"There was no oxygen mask and no doctor at the stadium except for the Chiefs doctor," said Vermezovic.
"Even the stretcher was too hard for a spine and neck injury.
"The health of the player is more important than the game.
"South Africa must be a step ahead compared to other African countries with such matters. We have just hosted a World Cup and we have beautiful venues, but we need to care more about our players. Our doctor will send a report to the PSL about his observations."
Khune collided with Golden Arrows striker Thamsanqa Gabuza in an aerial tussle, and the Chiefs goalkeeper came off second best.
The match was delayed for about 10 minutes as the medical staff treated the unconscious Khune. He was taken to hospital.
"Khune should be back in action in about 10 days. But 10 days is about three to four matches. Fortunately, he's a strong guy," said Vermezovic.
Vermezovic said Chiefs had more injury problems besides Khune: "Thomas Sweswe and Lucky Khune are also not available (but) Siphiwe Tshabalala is back from suspension.
"We must be aggressive and our attitude must be very positive when we play against Leopards."
Leopards coach Vladislav Heric is upbeat after their 2-1 victory over Santos on Wednesday night.
