Sinethemba Badela on working with Ernst Middendorp at Betway Premiership side Durban City: I am blessed to be working with him as he supports my work

Sinethemba Badela has got one thing right since arriving at Betway Premiership side Durban City.

The former Chippa United coach disclosed that his relationship with club technical director Ernst Middendorp is a healthy one.

Badela is right on this aspect as the departure of former City coach Gavin Hunt is largely due to his differing opinion with Middendorp.

The German born Middendorp had left the club while Hunt was at the helm but returned when the former Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United coach left.

Badela, probably, knows that his job lies in how he relates with Middendorp.

“I see it as a blessing. He gives me freedom to work,” Badela stated.

“He doesn’t interfere in my work, which is what any coach, any young coach, needs. He needs the support, but he also needs the freedom to work.

“And he’s a little bit opposite of me. I work the opposite side. I work until early mornings. He works early. So every morning I wake up, he sends me different things, different ideas. So we’ve got a good relationship. I learn a lot from him every day.

“When I’m not sure of something, his door is always open. So I’m grateful to have someone that has been there, done that he knows what a coach needs and is very supportive. I can’t ask for more.”