Why Rulani holds Middendorp in high esteem

The German-born tactician is back in the Premier Soccer League dugout, this time as Swallows FC coach and looking for his first win in charge of the Dube Birds against the DStv Premiership defending champions. 

Mokwena has often praised Middendorp for his tactical know-how. 

"If there's a coach that I frequently talk to, it's Ernst Middendorp. During the World Cup we talked frequently about his observations. He's always so willing to give me information and share information," Mokwena said.

It’s a glowing statement about the ex-Kaizer Chiefs coach as Mokwena claims the infancy of his own career forces him to “keep a low profile”.

"I don't talk. I try to keep a very low profile because I don't think I have got the right yet to be able to speak to a lot of PSL coaches. I've got to humble myself and earn my stripes. So, I don't communicate with a lot of coaches.

I try to keep to a space where I understand the ecosystem, which was the advice that was given to me a few years ago by a very wise man," he added.

Middendorp took over from interim coach and former player Musa Nyatama, a person Mokwena feels laid a strong foundation for Swallows this season.

"I don't want to also take away the incredible job that Musa Nyatama did in the interim. I think you guys know the feelings I have towards Musa. The closeness also that we have in terms of the engagements.

While he was in charge we were speaking and exchanging ideas. Musa is an incredible prospect for a coach. He's literally one of the best in the country mostly because of his love for the game but also his knowledge," Mokwena concluded.