Wits show Safa red card

Bidvest Wits University have shown Safa a red card on the eve of today’s crucial Premier League encounter against Mamelodi Sundowns and refused to release lethal striker Phakamani Mahlambi (above) for next week’s Caf Under-20 tournament in Zambia.

The decision by Wits has been taken despite dire threats from Safa CEO Dennis Mumble that strong action would be taken against the Students for their uncompromising stand.

Fifa rules decree that it is only mandatory for clubs to release players for official tournaments at senior level – for example the World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations – and not for age-group events or friendly internationals.

Wits justified their action by stressing the importance of the 19-year-old Mahlambi to their Premier League plans – pointing out they are sympathetic to Safa’s needs and are releasing other players for the Amajita squad.

“We are acting totally within our rights,” stressed a Wits statement, “while taking into account the interests of all concerned.”

But Wits said they also took exception to Safa’s attitude, which indicated they were acting illegally.