interim coach Cavin Johnson has expressed his confidence in Colombian striker Jasond Gonzalez. Despite Gonzalez’s goal drought since joining Amakhosi on loan, Johnson remains optimistic about the player’s potential and is set to provide him with more game time in the remaining weeks of the year.
Gonzalez made his mark in Chiefs’ recent 1-0 victory over Moroka Swallows, coming on as a substitute at Dobsonville Stadium. This marked his seventh appearance of the season and only the second time he played under Johnson, who seems committed to unlocking the striker’s full potential.
While Gonzalez is yet to find the back of the net, Johnson is not losing patience. The coach believes that, given time and understanding, the Colombian striker will add the value the team is seeking. Johnson draws from his past experience with Colombian players, citing his work with Luis Renteria at Platinum Stars. According to Johnson, South Americans, including Colombians, are known for their determination and love for the game.
“I’ve been trying to understand what Gonzalez is all about because that’s how I got the best out of Renteria,” Johnson explained after Amakhosi’s hard-fought win over the Dube Birds. “I think if we give him a little more opportunity and I am able to train a little bit more, he will get used to what the Kaizer Chiefs brand is all about.”
Johnson highlighted that South American players, including Gonzalez, thrive when playing in front of an audience and are not overly concerned about the size of the brand. He expressed confidence in Gonzalez’s skills, emphasizing the striker’s impressive footwork and physical improvement.
