Despite joining Kaizer Chiefs to bolster their attacking options, both strikers have found regular playing time hard to come by in the Betway Premiership this season.
Mayo, who joined Chiefs after making a name for himself at Cape Town City, was expected to bring goals and experience to the Soweto giants. However, the South African international is still working towards reaching the physical condition required to compete at the highest level.
Da Cruz believes the striker is making progress but insists that he needs more time before being introduced into demanding matches.
“Mayo is not far; he’s a quality player, but for this game he was not physically ready to play this type of game. He must walk into the game, and with Ighodaro, he needs to understand the game model, so we’ll work with him,” Da Cruz told reporters.
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Meanwhile, Ighodaro’s situation is slightly different, with the Nigerian forward still adjusting to the tactical demands of his new team.
The striker was brought in to offer additional attacking options, but Da Cruz believes understanding the team’s playing philosophy is crucial before he can become a regular selection.
The Chiefs coach appears unwilling to rush either player into action, preferring to give them sufficient time to adapt and reach the required standards.