MONDAY, 11.30AM:
The new managing director of Amazulu, Lawrence Ngubane, has signed three Zimbabwean internationals in a bid to strengthen his side. Steward Murisa, Alois Bunjira and Callisto Pasuwa have moved from Zimbabwean champions Caps United.
Ngubane said he was impressed by the three players when Orlando Pirates played United in the Africa club soccer champions league last month. The Amazulu captain, Francis Shonayi — himself a Zimbabwean — also recommended the players. “I have no doubt that Bunjira in particular will create a stir in local circles. He is strong, skillful and a very creative player with the ability to position himself in the right place at the right time. He is going to make a difference in the team,” said Ngubane. The three are expected to arrive on July 17.
Meanwhile, Manning Rangers striker George Koumantarakis turned down an offer to play for Rapid Vienna in Austria in favour of local big spenders SuperSport United. Koumantarakis wanted a three-year contract, but the Austrians offered him a one-year contract because he has never played in the European league and there is no guarantee that he will perform to expectations. SuperSport payed R400 000 for Koumantarakis.
And South African U20 and U23 star Junaid Hartley, who impressed several scouts during the world youth championships in Malaysia, appears to be heading for a French first-division club.