It could very well be the end of Willard Katsande at Kaizer Chiefs if recent comments by coach Ernst Middendorp are anything to go by.
The veteran midfield workhorse had been left out of three consecutive games until he came off the bench in the first half during the 1-0 win over Maritzburg United at the weekend. His omission has cast serious doubts over his future with the Glamour Boys. Katsande, 33, has also been linked with a switch to rivals Orlando Pirates.
Read: The Secret To Chiefs' Title Winning Season
The Siya crew looks at possible replacements at the club and elsewhere
George Maluleka
More recently it is ‘Mido’ who has been deployed as a deep lying midfielder for Chiefs in the absence of Katsande. It’s a role he can grow in, although he is a lot more attack minded than his teammate. Maluleka is three years younger.
‘Dux’ Andrianarimanana
Rather than have Katsande come off the bench, Middendorp has opted to give the Madagascan international a chance. ‘Dux’ is still finding his feet at the club and made a 25-minute cameo in the win over Highlands Park.
Cole Alexander
Once a target for Amakhosi, the Siya crew has reported renewed interest for Alexander. He’s a typical replacement for Katsande and has been a highlight at Bidvest Wits this season.
Read: Middendorp: I Hope It Won't Take Me Three Years
Thabang Monare
If Middendorp is going to change the way Chiefs play, then Monare would be a good fit in midfield. He has also attracted interest from Mamelodi Sundowns. He is versatile, has goals in him and gets this job done when he is forced to drop deep.
Fortune Makaringe
Another player Amakhosi have their eye on and one that has improved in the last year or so after playing a pivotal role at Maritzburg United. Despite the club going through a slump and fighting relegation, Makaringe has continued to catch the eye of both Chiefs and Pirates.
Watch: SLTV: 'Chiefs And SuperSport Can Still Compete For The League'