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Daniels aims to bolster SSU

Pretoria - Newly-signed SuperSport United defender Clayton Daniels aims to help the club become a defensive juggernaut again.

"The whole plan was to come in and bolster the club at the back. The team signed new players to make the team stronger," Daniels said on Wednesday.

"I think SuperSport had the idea to sign me and help them improve as a team and bring some stability in defence, which I'll try my best to do."

Last season United conceded 36 goals from their 30 league matches, which was clearly an area of concern.

Coach Cavin Johnson brought an ultra-attacking philosophy to the club, which left the team vulnerable at the back.

Daniels was introduced to his new teammates on Wednesday as the club's pre-season began.

He joined the club on a two-year contract from Bloemfontein Celtic.

The 29-year-old, originally from the Mother City, said his decision to join the Pretoria outfit was largely influenced by a reunion with Johnson.

"He was a very big influence for me to come here. I know the coach very well from my days at the Ajax youth ranks.

"I know what kind of football he likes. He likes to play football from the back which is a philosophy I believe in," Daniels said.

Another motivating factor in his move was the club's ambitions and competitiveness said Daniels.

"I think SuperSport is one of the top four teams in the country. It's a highly rated and respected club. They always wins a cup or two, and challenges for the league. It's a very ambitious club and I would like to play my part in such a team."

Daniels believed his team's preparation for the new season would determine their success.

"This is the time when it all comes together. It all starts here -- the dedication, preparation and the planning. All the work we are going to put in will all lead up to the outcome at the end of the season."

The installation of Daniels into the squad immediately made him one of the leaders at the club with the entire back-line, except for Thabo September, 31, all under the age of 26.

"It's not weird for me to come into a team and become one of the leaders. SuperSport has a young squad. Leadership comes naturally for me, it is part of my character. I know how to lead by example.

"At all my previous clubs I've been captain. But I understand that performances are important.

"I also have to put in the work and do well for the team."

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