Parker: We are stronger this season

Parker tells KickOff.com that the current squad is stronger in comparison with the one from last season, making specific reference to international players that have been added to the fold such as Morgan Gould, Siboniso Gaxa and Mulomowandau Mathoho.

"I would say yes definitely the team is more stronger now compared to last season, because this time we signed more international players both foreign and local," Parker says.

"So adding international experience means there is now even tougher competition in the team, which is something that has pushed everyone. All the players are looking sharp, which is a positive for the team heading into the new season," he argues.

Meanwhile, the 26-year-old says a win over nemesis Orlando Pirates in Saturday's Carling Black Label Cup clash is vitally important taking into account that Chiefs players have to redeem themselves after a rather disappointing 2011/12 season in which they failed to win a single trophy.

"The coach is always reminding us that we must take each game serious and as you saw we took our game serious in the Gauteng Sports Challenge, that's precisely the reason we won the cup so again we will take our game serious against Pirates.

"Winning against Pirates will definitely boost our confidence," Parker concludes.