Cape Town - Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya has revealed that several Kaizer Chiefs veterans have helped him settle into his role in the first team.
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Ntiya-Ntiya has singled out Bernard Parker, Daniel Cardoso and Willard Katsande for special praise, also revealing that Tsepo Masilela and Sibusiso Khumalo helped him too.
"It's a great feeling," Ntiya-Ntiya said on having made the left-back position his own, according to his club's official website. The youngster has started all four of Amakhosi's competitive games so far this season.
"The technical team and the players have all helped me settle. During the match, Bernard Parker, Daniel Cardoso and Willard Katsande talk to me quite a lot, continuously giving guidance."
Ntiya-Ntiya hailed the impact of former Chiefs defenders Masilela and Khumalo, both of whom have been released by the club, on his progress.
"Tsepo is my role model," Ntiya-Ntiya said. "He always told me to work hard and be positive. Sibusiso Khumalo also helped a lot."
Ntiya-Ntiya admitted that Chiefs didn't play their "normal football" in the 1-1 draw with Baroka on Tuesday, but is confident they can bounce back against Maritzburg United on Friday.
"They have a young side that is full of energy, but we will work hard as a team, play our game and grind out a result. We are ready," he said.
The clash at the Harry Gwala Stadium will kick off at 20:00.