John Paintsil eyes top finish for Maritzburg

New Ghanaian defender John Paintsil believes Maritzburg United have more than what it takes to finish in the top five in the South Africa top-flight this season.

The Team of Choice have lost just once so far this term, winning two and drawing three of their opening six games to sit in sixth position.

The Ghana international is hoping they can maintain their strong start to 2014/15, throughout the season.

“We have what it takes to win the league,” Paintsil told Football 411.

“We are not in the league just to play, we believe that we can finish in the top five.”

The 33-year-old, who has 88 caps for Ghana, signed a one-year deal for the Pietermaritzburg outfit at the start of the season and he says he has enjoyed life at Maritzburg thus far.

“Things are going very well. We don’t joke here. We have a strong coach, who is very professional and I am happy to be here.”

Paintsil is also enjoying mentoring young players at the club, adding: “I think it’s always good for a player that has played in Europe for a long time to give back.

“I try to do things in a professional way so youngsters can see that and learn from it.”

United are set to travel Johannesburg to face league leaders, Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, September 27.

In head-to-head stats, Chiefs and Maritzburg have met in 16 league matches since 2005/06.

The Amakhosi have six wins, the Team of Choice four and six matches have been drawn.

Chiefs have won four of their eight home matches against United, suffering two defeats in the process.

Last season the Amakhosi took four points from the teams’ two league matches, winning 2-0 at home and drawing 0-0 away.