Kaizer Chiefs coach Steve Komphela believes striker Gustavo Paez will play a big role in helping Amakhosi claim silverware during the 2017-18 campaign.

The Venezuelan striker bagged a brace to guide Amakhosi past the Township Rollers in the semi-final, following their 2-0 victory in the Bakone Bophirimi Maize Cup at the James Motlatsi Stadium on Saturday.

However, the Glamour Boys went on to claim a 1-0 victory over Free State Stars in the final to secure their first Maize Cup trophy.

The 50-year-old coach has faith that Paez will continue to make an impact in the team during the new season.

“It is important again to have the feel of their supporters. These people are demanding. It is important to integrate the players slowly with the team and there must be integration between the team and the supporters,” Komphela said.

“If you look back at Paez, most of them [the fans] would ask why we wasted so much time, why did we not play Paez early. If you introduce him too early and he doesn’t step in nicely, it becomes a problem.

“I think Paez has passed the test. We are looking at Teenage Radebe to pass it and the youngsters and build a strong foundation. The transfer market is difficult to operate freely,” he added.

– This story originally appeared on SportsClub.co.za