By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Former Sekhukhune United head coach Eric Tinkler has been unveiled as the new head coach of Durban City, replacing Khalil Ben Youssef.
Tinkler joins City after leaving Ghanaian club Asante Kotoko.
In his acceptance speech, Tinkler said joining the club was an easy decision.
“I’m excited to be part of what is being built here at Durban City FC,” he said. “The club is ambitious; they have made positive strides in a short space of time, competing in the CAF Confederation Cup already, and that made my decision easy.”
He cited his good working relationship with City chairman Farook Kadodia as the reason why he decided to come back to South Africa to rejoin the club.
Tinkler and Kadodia worked together at Maritzburg United [now known as Durban City after it was renamed]. During his tenure at the club, he guided Maritzburg United to the final of the 2019 Telkom Knockout.
Kadodia expressed his confidence in Tinkler’s capability to steer the club toward its seasonal objectives.
“Eric brings a wealth of experience in South African football and understands what is required at this level,” stated Kadodia.
“We believe he is the right person to lead the team and help us achieve what we have set out to achieve this season.”
Tinkler’s first official match at the helm will be the Betway Premiership KZN derby against Amazulu FC on 13 October at Chatsworth Stadium.