Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp has returned to South African football arena. This time as the new coach of Maritzburg United, following Gordon Igesund's resignation last week. Middendorp is no stranger to South African soccer -- having previously coached Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs for two seasons, from 2005 to 2007.

He now joins Maritzburg United with the hope of helping the team climb up the Absa Premiership log. Middendorp has promised to improve the team's fortunes. Maritzburg are currently 12th on the log with just 16 points.

Middendorp says it is very important, especially in this short time as the season finishes in February that they have a clear target and are successful as much as possible. The club's confident that Middendorp will prove his worth.

Club chairperson Farouk Kadodia, says with the hectic schedule ahead of nine games in four weeks, Middendorp has the experience to manage the situation and the pressure from it and they know that come Christmas they will be sitting pretty on the log. Middendorp will get his chance to show Maritzburg supporters what he is capable of when they play current log leaders Supersport United this weekend.