Rantie’s hopes recede
Bafana Bafana striker Tokelo Rantie’s chances of a recall for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Nigeria in June have been hit by an injury that is keeping him out out of action at his Turkish side Genclerbirligi. Rantie (above), 26, has had limited game time in the Turkish Superliga in any case this season, starting just five league games for his side, with 10 substitute appearances, the last coming on March 19. Rantie has scored one league goal all season, though he has netted three times in the Turkish Cup.
Mamelodi Sundowns are the most likely to land Maritzburg United forward Deolin Mekoa (above), a source close to the Pietermaritzburg team has revealed. Mekoa has been one of the stand-out performers at the Team of Choice for the past two seasons and has attracted the interest of a few teams including Sundowns, SuperSport United and Kaizer Chiefs. Mekoa is said to have set his eyes on an overseas move and sees Pitso Mosimane’s side as a step in the right direction. “He has seen how Keagan (Dolly) managed a move overseas after impressing at Sundowns, especially during their Caf participation. The continental competitions attract a lot of scouts and Mekoa wants to follow in Dolly’s footsteps,” said the source.
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane has revealed he is keen on signing a Mamelodi-born player to add to Lucky Mohomi (above), who is the only player in the team from the township that bears the club’s name. George Lebese, who is also from Mamelodi, attended the Brazilians’ 5-0 thrashing of neighbours SuperSport United on Thursday. With Downs still looking for a naturally left-footed winger following the departure of Keagan Dolly to French side Montpellier FC, Lebese could be their target. “Lucky is the only one in the team from Mamelodi, and he has been representing his home town very well. I would also like to sign a few more players from Mamelodi,” said Mosimane, who is a long-term admirer of the Kaizer Chiefs man.
Black Leopards are set to lose one of their prized players, Siphelele Ntshangase (above), if the team fail to win promotion to the Absa Premiership, Phakaaathi has been told. “Ntshangase has an overseas offer waiting for him to decide. It is not from a big team or a big league but the money is good and it will provide a platform for him to grow in Europe,” said a source. He added that Ntshangase is not considering the offer yet because he is focused on helping Lidoda Duvha get back to the elite league. “His main priority is to make a name for himself in the PSL (Premiership) and since no team wanted to fork out for his services, he wants to show them what they missed out on.”