Former Orlando Pirates midfield star Steve Lekoelea is now fit and well and ready to run out for Platinum Stars.
This was announced on Tuesday when Stars’ CEO Larry Brookstone explained why the signing of Lekoelea had taken nearly four months to complete.
”We sent Steve for a 12-week training programme before signing him,” Brookstone said. ”The alignment of his hips was not correct but after the training programme with Professor Hattingh from Potchefstroom he is 100% fit and ready to do duty for us.
”I believe the money we invested in Steve’s treatment is worth it as we have secured an icon of South African football at Stars.”
The former Bucs playmaker was handed the number 10 jersey, which, according to Brookstone, was the only thing Lekoelea asked for.
”I’m happy to be a part of this club and to be back in soccer,” Lekoelea said. ”Soon you’ll see me in action doing what I do best, and not only scoring goals from free kick situations.
Lekoelea was a dead-ball specialist at Bucs and was known for his accurate passes and trickery. However, his temperament and fall-out with coaches is also well documented.
”I’m going to concentrate on playing football,” he said.
”I don’t have a problem with the coaches at Stars but I do have a problem with money,” he said jokingly.
Lekoelea was also known for his lavish lifestyle and the numerous luxury sedans he owned while at Pirates. Chippa, as Lekoelea is known, had his own legion of fans at Bucs and does not believe the lack of supporters at Stars will affect his performance.
”I’m settled with the team and I’ll be happy playing in front of our fans. My performance on the field will not be affected by the crowds.
Lekoelea’s contract with Stars is for two seasons with the option of renewal. – Sapa