Steve Komphela to lead Kaizer Chiefs
The former Bafana Bafana captain (47) replaces Englishman Stuart Baxter and becomes the first local coach of the Glamour Boys since Doctor Khumalo and Ace Khuse shared the position in the 2002/3 season.
Komphela had resigned as Maritzburg United on Friday, much to the disappointment of the club, and has been given three-year deal at Naturena.
"We needed to plug the gap with the season about to commence. We didn't have much time, but we have answered the call", Chiefs chairman Kaizer Motaung said.
"I want to take this opportunity to welcome him. He was here before as a player.
"He has paid his dues and he deserves the kind of platform we're going to give him at Chiefs. We wish him all the best; may he enjoy this journey."
Komphela was philosophical in his first public appearance as Chiefs boss.
"This is quite scary. From the bottom of my heart I wish to thank the chairman a lot," he said,
"The challenge is immense ... I have to acknowledge the success of the previous season ... it was unbelievable.
"As a local boy I am coming into a team that I believe is the best team in Africa.
"This is a unique opportunity. It's historic and I'm very excited.
"This is the most difficult decision I've ever taken, the bravest but also the rightest."
Komphela revealed that contact with the club had begun as early as 2009, when Motaung said that he would be monitoring the coach's progress in the hopes of one day bringing him to Chiefs.
(File Photo: Gallo Images)
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