Development in Vukusic’s mandate

Polokwane City have committed to giving more youngsters from underprivileged areas in the Limpopo province a chance to break into the professional ranks, which is why they hired a little-known coach in Jozef Vukusic.

Rise and Shine announced Vukusic as their new coach this week and spokesman Vusi Ntimane told Phakaaathi Plus that the Slovakian’s belief in youth was the main attraction. Vukusic replaced Bernard Molekwa, who has been redeployed within the team.

“We know him from long ago,” said Ntimane yesterday. “We tracked him and found him in Slovakia and we brought him back. Vukusic has coached in various countries and had a spell at FC Cape Town in the National First Division between 2010 and 2012.

“When he was at FC Cape Town he gave a lot of youngsters a chance, including Keagan Buchanan. He introduced him at 16. He is a coach who will not just take the team forward but will also ensure we have a future.”

Vukusic will be tasked with ensuring the senior team do well in the Absa Premiership, but will also be expected to oversee the side’s development teams to en- sure synergy and growth in both.

“There is a lot to achieve but his immediate mandate will be to ensure that we have competitive teams in both the Absa Premiership and MDC. We have to win our games in the Premiership and remain there. But we know he is capable of unearthing talent and we expect him to do that as well.

“We have a lot of untapped talent in the province and hope he will help us unleash it.”

Rise and Shine unveiled seven new players on Wednesday: Lehlohonolo Nhlapo, Themba Chauke, Khayalethu Mjoli, Tebogo Kalake, Bongani Manavhela, Msekeli Mvalo and Muhammed Anas (pictured).

Ntimane denied that they had signed Swazi international, Banele “Pupu” Sikhondze, despite former side Mbabane Swallows hosting a farewell party for the midfielder claiming he was joining City.