Former Kaizer Chiefs’ midfielder Shamiel (Shaun) Permall (pictured) says he is excited by the fact that many of his former professional teammates and rivals are actively involved in coaching positions in various amateur and pro structures.
Permall, who has been roped in by the newcomer Inter City FC to assist Theo Hempe, is back in the Second Division after he served as an assistant to Brandon Truter back in 2018.
According to the 44-year-old Permal – who enjoyed three years with the AmaKhosi between 2001 and 2004 – it is encouraging to witness the empowerment and upskilling of the local coaches.
“That is why I’m so looking forward to this season to battle with guys like CT Spurs’ coach Nasief Morris who I played with,” Permall said to No Bones with Jones. “Then you also have (Chrissando) De Weber from Junction Rovers and Jiks (Shaun Oliver), who I played with, while I played against Saatjie (Arreshaat Daniels) and Hare (Clayton Daniels Hope FC assistant) and also Seaside Spurs’ Gerald Stober.
“So, with that in mind, I’m really looking forward to the season. We are under no illusion of the challenges in this league and we are fully aware it’s going to be tough as there are quality coaches and players at all the teams competing in this league,” he added.
Unfortunately, City were knocked out of the Nedbank Cup with a 1-4 scoreline against Hanover Park FC last weekend and according to Permall, it was down to inexperience. “I’d say it was a game of two halves,” Permall further pointed out. “The goals also came quickly after each other.”
Permall, who signed pro for Ajax Cape Town at 16 years going on to 17, recalls one of his most daunting memories as a 19-year-old leading the strikeforce against one of Africa’s biggest clubs, Al Ahly.
“Look, playing in a Soweto derby is pretty massive, but I remember when we won the Cup Winners’ Cup one year with Chiefs and we came up against the Caf Champions League winners Al Ahly from Egypt. I started in that match in front of 120,000 fans,” Permall recalled.
“All you could see was just a red wave and I went ‘Wow’ as it was very intimidating, you know. That image is still vivid in my mind as it’s an experience that I’ll never forget,” said Permall, who joined the City of Cape Town’s law enforcement since he retired from professional football.
