Middendorp’s arrival at the club following a turbulent spell under Giovanni Solinas has already rubbed off on some of the players in the Chiefs camp, as they look to turn the corner.
The German tactician has brought a refined approach to The Glamour Boys, who often looked unsure under his predecessor, as they strung together three wins in a row before their recent defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns.
Ekstein has also shown renewed confidence as he bagged a brace in their CAF Confederation Cup tie away to Madagascan side Elgeco Plus a fortnight ago.
The 28-year-old has since declared himself a happy trooper under the current conditions and, though competition for places in midfield remains stiff, is happy to have to prove his worth.
“I’m happy. Like I always say, I love competition and I enjoy competing with the guys because if there’s no competition it means you’re not going to do anything,” said Ekstein.
“So, I’m happy that I have to fight to get my chance and that I’ve scored two goals [since Middendorp came in] because that is something that I’ve been lacking in my game.”
The Bekkersdal-born attacker also believes the new coach has brought a revival to their ambitions of ending their barren run.
“The team can go far because he understands us, and we understand him. He told us that we have to lift our socks and play well,” he added.
“We’ve been playing for three to four seasons without winning anything, so we have to win something for the club because Kaizer Chiefs is a big team known to win trophies.”