Tinkler linked with Maritzburg, Davids focused on the job

Maritzburg United find themselves on a very tough run at present, and coach Fadlu Davids’ job security has been questioned as they look to climb away from the Absa Premiership relegation zone.

The Siya crew reported after the defeat to SuperSport United that the young coach’s job could be on the line going into the new year, and it is now thought that a former Bafana Bafana international player could be in line to replace him if he does eventually move on.

While Davids is currently preparing his side for a must-win clash with Baroka FC at the weekend, and is adamant that he can turn things around, Siya sources have suggested that Eric Tinkler could be seen as a possible replacement if the club decide that they do want a change of coach.

The crew did get in contact with Davids’ representative, Rasthoem Simons, for comment on the coach’s future, and were told that he is fully focused on the job at hand.

Simons told the crew, “Look, as far as Fadlu is concerned, his situation try and turn the situation around at Maritzburg, and he’s confident that he can do so.

“Their points total right now is not massively different from where they were at last season at this point, and Fadlu is focused on doing whatever he can to help Maritzburg have a better 2019.”

Maritzburg had a record-breaking campaign in 2017/18 under Davids as they reached the Nedbank Cup final, however have now won just two of their last 20 games in all competitions.

been linked with an exit from the Bethlehem-based outfit for some time and it seems as though Ea Lla Koto have given up on trying to convince the 29-year-old to pen a new contract with the club.

He will be entering into the last six months of his existing contract in January, which means that he will be in a position to sign a pre-contract at the turn of the new year. He has been linked to the likes of Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs and Bidvest Wits in the past, though indications are that The Lions of the North could edge their rivals to landing the player.

“Free State Stars have been in talks with Sinethemba Jantjie about a new contract as the player’s current deal is coming to an end at the end of the season. But the parties have failed to reach an agreement and the discussions have stalled. The player is likely to sign a new contract with a new club in January,” said the source.

Contacted for comment, Jantjie’s representative, Ratshibvumo Mulovhedzi, confirmed interest in the winger from the Lions of the North. “Yes, there interest in the player from a number of clubs and Highlands Park is one of them. Look, Free State Stars has always been the first option for us and we gave the club first preference.

“However, our negotiations with them have stalled and Highlands Park look to be the team showing serious interest in the player right now. We have a good relationship with the club’s owner and coach Owen da Gama, and they show that they are serious in wanting the player,” said Mulovhedzi.