By Eshlin Vedan 
Aug 11, 2021
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PSL Preview No 2: Maritzburg United
In the coming fortnight IOL Sport’s football writers will guide you through the upcoming PSL season, club by club.
Today, Eshlin Vedan takes look at Maritzburg United.
Coach
In Ernst Middendorp, Maritzburg have a seasoned coach who knows how to get the most out of his players as he did last season.
New signings
Rowan Human, Brylon Peterson, Zukile Kewuti, Lifa Hlongwane,
Alfred Ndengane, Brandon Theron, Renaldo Leaner, Richard Zumah, Tato Lesoma and Clive Augusto.
Other important players from last season that the Team of Choice let go of are Kwanda Mngonyama, Daniel Morgan and Dusan Stevic, while the loan spells of Tebogo Tlolane and Keletso Sifama has also ended. Their aim will be to deliver strong performances, and while they will be more than happy to secure a top-eight finish, they will also be content with avoiding relegation.
Key players
Bongokuhle Hlongwane
One of the problem areas for Maritzburg last season was in goal where neither Jethren Barr, Sebastian Mwange or Bongani Mpandle put their hands up to be the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
After arriving at the club earlier this year from Germany, Engelhardt steadied the ship. He may well be inundated with shots at his goal against the so-called “better clubs” in the league and so will need to be on top of his game.
Zukile Kewuti
The new arrival is likely to be used as the midfield anchorman for Middendorp’s team. It will be up to him to ensure that the defence and attack link and communicate well.
Predicted position
13th