Dillon Sheppard backs Zwane despite calls to change management 

Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Dillon Sheppard has backed Arthur Zwane to weather the storm amid the Soweto giants’ poor showing this season.

Sheppard said that he remains committed to the re-building mission at Chiefs and and will continue showing Zwane his unwavering support. 

The 44-year-old assistant coach believes that he shares the same vision with Zwane to guide Chiefs back to their glory days in the SA.

When Chiefs lost 3-2 to Golden Arrows in a DStv Premiership clash a fortnight ago at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, the disappointing display led to the ‘boo boys’ chanting “Zwane must go”. 

Chiefs are fourth on the log standings after 22 games with 34 points; 10 wins, four draws and eight defeats.

Their only chance of winning a trophy this campaign is in Nedbank Cup as they missed out on the MTN8 and the league is out of reach – 22 points adrift of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with eight games remaining.

DILLON SHEPPARD BACKS ARTHUR ZWANE 

“My role as coach Zwane’s assistant is to assist him in every possible way,” Sheppard told media during the Nedbank Cup press conference. 

“I am there for him as support and when times are tough he knows I’ve got his back one hundred percent.

“When he goes home at night, hopefully, he can sleep well in the knowledge that he has all the support that he needs in the world.”

THE PRESSURE THAT COMES WITH COACHING KAIZER CHIEFS 

Sheppard further stated that they are well aware of the pressure that comes with coaching a big team like Chiefs. 

“We know what this job is about, being the coach of Kaizer Chiefs. Talking about the pressures that come with it,” he explained. 

“He [Zwane] knows he’s got me totally behind him, 24/7, and whatever is needed, I’m there for that.” 

The Glamour Boys will welcome Motsepe Foundation Championship side Casric Stars for the Nedbank Cup last 16 encounter on Sunday, 12 March 2023.

The showdown will take place at FNB Stadium, with the kick-off set for 18:00.

“Preparation has gone really well. In two games now, two clean sheets. We are gaining momentum. The energy has been really good and the players are looking forward to the match,” added Sheppard. 

“It’s about momentum, not just in the Nedbank Cup but also for the upcoming league games. 

“We want to go forward in the right headspace with the right energy. And that’s what we have been seeing from the players.”

RELATED STORY: How SA U23 coach could benefit from Chiefs’ Arthur Zwane