Nkambule’s given up
A source close to former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Michael Nkambule has informed Phakaaathi that the midfielder has lost hope in trying to get his once promising career back on track after a long time without a club. Nkambule was seen as the next big star to come out of Chiefs’ development structures but has not lived up to expectations. “It is all over for him and he knows that. I don’t understand why he has failed to even try to play for a team in the National First Division (NFD). He now plays tournaments in townships to make some money, but he says he knows he won’t play for a professional team anymore because he is 28 now and no one wants to take him,” said the source. Nkambuke also had spells with Black Leopards and Roses United. Big Two fight for United’s Rusike
Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are said to be neck-and-neck in the race for Maritzburg United’s Evans Rusike. “Maritzburg do not want to sell him because they need him especially after losing Kurt (Lentjies) but they may be forced to let him go as Chiefs and Pirates have made good offers,” said a source. “Pirates stand a good chance because they have offered other players plus cash and Maritzburg could do with more experienced players,” added the source. Phakaaathi, however, has established that should Pirates be successful in their bid for Mamelodi Sundowns’ Mogakolodi Ngele, they might abandon their interest in Rusike. Lebese linked to Sundowns
The rumours surrounding George Lebese (above) being unhappy at the club are intensifying as the winger continues to be linked with a move to his hometown club Mamelodi Sundowns. Lebese didn’t travel with the team for their friendly match away to Chippa United on Saturday, where Katlego Mashego’s freekick earned Dan Malesela’s side a 1-0 win. With Lebese’s contract expiring at the end of next season, Phakaaathi understands that Kaizer Chiefs may sell the winger to Sundowns instead of letting him go for free. The Brazilians have been in search for a natural left-winger since the departure of Keagan Dolly to French side Montpellier in January. Sono slammed over clearance
Jomo Cosmos owner Jomo Sono has been accused of unfair treatment towards Thato Sithole (above), who played for the club last season. The defensive midfielder is training on his own back home in Tembisa as Cosmos are delaying giving him his clearance. “He was told he was no longer needed at the end of last season although he still had a year left on his contract. He didn’t fight them and asked for his clearance, but is yet to be given one,” said a source close to the player. “I am concerned because he should be looking for a team right now, but he can’t because they would want a clearance,” added the source.