Parker backs Vries to bounce back in Soweto derby

Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp has hinted at fielding a different goalkeeper in the Soweto derby following Vries’ costly mistake in their 1-0 loss to Cape Town City. However, Parker is confident Vries can bounce back at the FNB Stadium.

The former Bafana Bafana striker says Vries needs the support from the Chiefs family for him to give a good performance on Saturday.

“Virgil is blessed to have a family that supports him. He is an international, he can step up from here. We just need to send those positive signals to him so he can be stronger. The good thing about football, there is always the next game for you to rectify things,” said Parker.

With Chiefs having signed Daniel Akpeyi from Chippa United in the January transfer period, Vries finds himself under pressure to perform at the Naturena-based side.

“Virgil is well aware of what is happening. It’s for any player to worry when the team is looking to beef up in your position. You ask the question if you are do the right thing, it’s having that acceptance that this is happening, that you need to improve and keep things together,” concluded Parker.

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