Miguel Cardoso makes Mikel Arteta example ahead of Sekhukhune clash | OneFootball

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Cardoso makes Arteta reference as Sekhukhune tie looms

Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/ BackPagePix

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has made a reference to Arsenal FC manager Mikel Arteta ahead of their Betway Premiership clash against Sekhukhune United on Sunday (15h30).

The title holders entertain Babina Noko as they aim to swiftly return to the summit of the log standings after they were dislodged by Orlando Pirates, who beat Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto derby on Saturday.

Sundowns trail the Buccaneers with three points, having picked up 38 points in 17 league outings, albeit played one game less than their title rivals.

With the high-stakes match against third-placed Sekhukhune looming, Cardoso noted that coaches are only embraced when results are forthcoming, but disliked when form dips - quoting Arteta.

"We need the support of our fans - I don't need the support but the players they do need [the support]. I'm not speaking for myself, I don't need it because I know that coaches obviously are liked when they win, they are disliked if they don't win.

"Obviously, it's very easy to like the coach when he wins but as [Mikel] Arteta said during this week that it's important that people are supported in all the moments because you make a very serious job.

"But support the players of Sundowns, those are very hard working people with a lot of character, that have achieved so much until now, and for sure whatever happens will continue to achieve in the nearest future and more far away.

Sundowns scraped past Sekhukhune in the first meeting as Nuno Santos and Brayan Leon chipped in with stoppage time goals in Polokwane in January.