Durban City FC have appointed former Bafana Bafana midfielder and coach Eric Tinkler as their new head coach.
The club confirmed Tinkler’s appointment on Thursday, following their decision to part ways with former head coach Khalil Ben Youssef.
Tinkler, who was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that won the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations, has previously coached Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City and SuperSport United. He most recently managed Ghanaian club Asante Kotoko.
The 55-year-old takes charge as Durban City prepare to return to domestic action following the FIFA international break.
“I’m excited to be part of what is being built here at Durban City FC. The club is very 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,” said Tinkler.
His appointment also reunites him with Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia, with whom he previously worked during his time at Maritzburg United. Tinkler guided the club to the final of the 2019 Telkom Knockout Cup.
“The chairman is someone I’ve worked with before. When the opportunity presented itself to come back, I grabbed it with both hands,” Tinkler said.
Kadodia believes Tinkler’s experience makes him the right man to lead the club.
“Eric brings a wealth of experience in South African football and understands what is required at this level. We believe he is the right person to lead the team and help us achieve what we have set out to achieve this season,” said Kadodia.
Tinkler said his immediate focus will be on building on the foundations laid last season rather than making major changes to the squad.
“I don’t want to make massive changes because last season the club was successful. It’s about giving others an opportunity and getting back to winning ways,” he said.
“We want to finish in the top eight, go as far as we can in the CAF Confederation Cup, and compete in the Carling Cup and Nedbank Cup. There’s a lot to play for.”
Tinkler will make his debut in charge in a KZN derby against AmaZulu on 13 October at Chatsworth Stadium.