'Chiefs Akpeyi Can Succeed At The Highest Level'
by Soccer LadumaA former Nigerian international goalkeeper had some encouraging words to say about Kaizer Chiefs’ Daniel Akpeyi.
Akpeyi is having an exciting 2019/20 campaign with Chiefs, with the 33-year-old having since established himself as the first choice goalkeeper for Head Coach Ernst Middendorp this season.
The goalkeeper, who has overtaken Itumeleng Khune on the pecking order, has been integral to Amakhosi’s run at the top for the Absa Premiership league title, keeping nine clean sheets in the league so far.
Read more: Chiefs Star Leads List Of 6 Most Expensive Foreigners
In an exclusive interview with Soccer Laduma this week, former Nigerian goalkeeper, Vincent Enyeama spoke about how his countryman, Akpeyi, has what it takes to succeed in Europe.
“I know him personally. I have been in the same national camp with him. I expect Idah Peterside and the media in general to hype up the players, not just Akpeyi. Often the media focuses on your faults, but they need to hype up the players, encourage and assist them to grow. You have the power to build players in a responsible way. I read reports that he (Akpeyi) has had an exceptional season with Kaizer Chiefs. Akpeyi can succeed at the highest level. The same applies to (Itumeleng) Khune. I wish them both luck and if they can look at me and consider that I succeeded in Europe, then what stops them from succeeding as well?” he said.
Read more: PSL Football Behind Closed Doors? Makaab Weighs In
The Siya crew reported in the past weeks that there has been interest in Akpeyi’s services from Europe, although no approaches have been made for the player.
In the full exclusive interview with Enyeama, he also discussed:
- Itumeleng Khune’s chances in Europe
- His interest in playing for the big three in South Africa
- His exchange with Lionel Messi during the World Cup.
Check out this week's edition of Soccer Laduma, issue number 1175, available here.