MESSAGES OF SUPPORT

IAN WRIGHT (EX-ARSENAL PLAYER) Rest in Peace Phil. We’ll never forget your goal that took South Africa to their first World Cup in 1998. A legend of South African football and loved by Leeds and Sundowns fans around the world. #RIPPhilMasinga. BRIAN DEANE (EX-LEEDS UNITED TEAMMATE) Devastating news about Phil Masinga. He was a great member of the changing room, probably closest to Yobo [Anthony Yeboah] and Lucas [Radebe], but always laughing with Kells, Noel, Sharpy, Andy C and Mark Tinkler. Quiet guy we all loved and respected him and his ability. RIP Phil, gone too soon friend.

LEEDS UNITED (MASINGA’S EX-CLUB) It is with great sadness that the club has learnt of former striker Phil Masinga’s passing. The thoughts of everyone at #LUFC are with his family and friends.

DAVID NYATHI (EX-BAFANA BAFANA TEAMMATE) Before he passed, I spoke to him on the phone and I was hoping he would make it through. We even shared a joke or two and I was so optimistic he would make it through. Phil was a such a giant and gave us many things to cherish, including taking us to our first World Cup in 1998 – the great goal he scored against Congo. There is are so many things to share about Chippa. My experience with him was more than just football. It was more about the person and the friend and the brother that I had. I am deeply affected. HELMAN MKHALELE (EX-BAFANA BAFANA TEAMMATE) He was humble and accessible, and people always wanted to talk to him. He was very close to the late Sizwe Motaung, even though at times they would fight and argue. If you didn’t know them, you would think their relationship was irreparable. But within 30 minutes, you would see them together joking and having fun. That is how they were. Phil was that kind of a person. Phil was a hard worker and didn’t want to be second best. I will miss him a lot.