A tough run of recent form for Kaizer Chiefs has not deterred striker Ashley du Preez, who remains determined to keep his mind focused on what matters most to him and to help his team finish the season strong.
The Vodacom-sponsored Amakhosi have endured a challenging period as they’ve been knocked out of the Nedbank Cup by rivals Orlando Pirates and are looking like missing out on CAF Championship League action as well as the DStv Premiership nears the end of its season.
But they do still have a shot at some African competition representation as they push for a third-place finish on the log and possible qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup. This weekend’s match against SuperSport United will be an important step towards this goal.
And Du Preez, using the same approach as he does for big matches such as the Soweto Derby, is remaining focused on the bigger picture and his personal goals with the club.
“As an individual you can’t be dwelling on other things. There is negativity all around, but as a person you need to remain fully focused. What I do is just keep thinking about what I can do to help the team. That’s my approach going into games – thinking about how I can provide for the team,” he said.
Du Preez added that his desire to perform at the highest level with Kaizer Chiefs has never been stronger.
“It starts as a young kid. I always wanted to play on this big stage. The desire, love and hunger I have for this game is what keeps driving me and my goal to want to go even further in my career. It keeps pushing me to give my family a better life. That’s what motivates me the most.
“A big club like Kaizer Chiefs helps me. Everyone here pushes you and you can see what the club is capable of doing for you as a person. As an individual I want to play for big clubs like this one, and to keep moving forward in my career. That’s the most important thing for me.”