It goes without saying that pressure continues to mount on Chiefs as they head towards a record run of four years without winning silverware, and their most realistic chance of doing so is now in this cup competition.
With this in mind, even though they’ll be coming up against an amateur side in Port Elizabeth on Sunday afternoon (15h00), Middendorp has assured they will not take the encounter lightly by overhauling his starting line-up.
“Of course, I said it before the last game and it’s nothing new this time; it’s the same story – it is our obligation to qualify for the next round,” said Middendorp.
“We won’t muddle around with what is available and what is at this moment our best team. We are not going with a second or third [team], taking it easy and showing disrespect.”
However, the German tactician will be forced into one change, having already confirmed that Bruce Bvuma will start in goal, while further declaring no other injury or suspension concerns at this stage.
“Of course, it is known that we cannot use our goalkeeper Daniel, who is cup-tied because he played for Chippa United [against Mamelodi Sundowns in the cup] and it means he is not available,” added Middendorp.
“So, that means I’m forced to change in this direction and our goalkeeper will be Bruce Bvuma on the weekend – that’s his role, he’s taking over.
“In terms of yellow cards or suspension, we have no question marks, while the only injuries are long-term ones – Lebo Manyama, Erick Mathoho, Itu Khune, who are all well known.
“We had some knocks from the Soweto Derby on the weekend, but we had 25 players, plus five goalkeepers, in training this morning [Thursday] and we will give certain players attention to see if we can use them or how far they need to improve to be first XI players.”