Pule Opens Up On Dlamini Replacing Folz At AmaZulu

AmaZulu playmaker Hendrick ‘Pule’ Ekstein has opened up about Romain Folz being ‘redeployed’ as Ayanda Dlamini stepping in as interim head coach.

Folz has been confirmed as the new technical director and taking out of the role as first-team head coach a month after being handed a new three-year contract at Usuthu.

The decision came as no surprise after a poor run of form dragged them into a relegation battle for the final six games of the season.

“Obviously it’s not a nice thing to lose a coach, irrespective of which coach it is, but with coach Ayanda, he’s been there, he knows the guys, we know him also,” Ekstein said.

“It’s not going to be a difficult team where it is and take it forward, but I think we’re ready and happy for the match.”

On the prospect of facing the in-form Citizens who are making a late push for CAF Inter-club competition spots in the top-three, the former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder admits it’s as big a challenge as they come in the DStv Premiership right now.

“Going to Cape Town is not easy, knowing how City is playing,” Ekstein added.

“We saw them in mid-week, and they are playing well, it’s going to be difficult since we’re not doing well in the league.

“But we’re ready as a team and hoping things go well. We’re preparing well and can’t wait [for the game].”

Usuthu are four points off 15th Maritzburg United who occupy the relegation play-off spot ahead of their clash at the DHL Stadium on Sunday (17h30).