Hunt not being naive about CAF

Cape Town - Bidvest Wits coach Gavin Hunt reveals that he will utilise his whole squad in the CAF Confederation Cup tournament.

Wits advanced to the next round of the CAF competition in fine style as thrashed Lightstars FC of Seychelles 9-0 on aggregate.

However, the former SuperSport United coach is experiencing a bit of a challenge as his squad is slowly becoming thin due to injuries and suspensions.

"Our squad is thin at the moment - I think we have two players out for the next round. In CAF you are only allowed to get two yellows and then you are suspended for one game," said Hunt on the club's website.

"Azam is a good side, they have John Bocco who came on trial when I was working at SuperSport , and he is a good striker. Allan Wanga plays in the national team. I know the team quite well – they play on astro turf as well.

"At least the first leg is here at home. I think it is very important to not be naive in these Cups and play your whole squad; I could never have played the team who played against Maritzburg United so soon again in CAF.

"The squad selected for the Confederation Cup will be tested in the next match to come, Azam is a good side."

"If we start advancing in the Cup rounds we will have to use mixed teams and naturally you want the boys to do well. I will try and play experienced with inexperienced players on the pitch, and we will take it from there.

"To challenge for the league title and advancing in the cup stages takes a huge toll on the players, and you are going to need the youngsters. I always say when the running comes you need a few younger players – it gives you a freshness.

"I have done it before with Kermit Erusmus, if you put them in a major big game they score. You need to give your good young players an opportunity and a platform. We have some good players.”

Bidvest Wits take on Azam FC in the next round of CAF on Saturday, March 12 at Bidvest Stadium.

Kick-off is set for 18:00.