Ajax Cape Town coach Stanley Menzo says he’s happy to continue at the helm of the Urban Warriors, while reflecting on his time in charge of a South African club for the first time. Ajax looked set to secure a top-eight finish heading into the last day of the season, yet a lacklustre display resulted in a 1-0 loss to relegation contenders Baroka FC, as the Cape club slipped down to 10th in the final standings. Despite the disappointing end to the season, Menzo is determined to see out his contract at Ikamva and make a stronger start to next season’s campaign. “I still have a contract until the end of this year,” he said. “I still have to speak with Ajax Amsterdam and with management in Cape Town, but I’m okay to continue next year. I think we are happy with each other, but we have to find a way to start well next year, and to make steps – I think that’s important from my side, and see how we can make those steps forward together.” 

The former Dutch international was roped in to replace Roger de Sa in October last year, with Ajax second-from-bottom in the Absa Premiership standings. And despite the challenges within the job, Menzo says he has enjoyed being at the helm of the South African top-flight club. “Some parts were enjoyable,” he said. “I’m also human, and when things go well I have a better feeling and come to work with a bigger smile than when things don’t go well. You are always trying to find out what’s wrong, and why things aren’t going right, which gives you another look compared to when things go right.  “There was obvious concern when we were near the bottom of the log, which was dangerous for the whole of the club … so all those things enter your mind, which changes your mindset, your feeling and your face. But in general I enjoyed it.”