Ekstein’s AmaZulu future undecided

The next few weeks will be crucial for Hendrick ‘Pule’ Ekstein, it would appear, with regards to his future with the club as he is nearing the end of his contract.

Ekstein has been with the KwaZulu-Natal giants since 2021, having joined the club on his return from Azerbaijan where he was with Sabail FK.

With almost three years with the Durban-based club, the former Kaizer Chiefs star will see his deal come to an end in June, and sources have indicated that he is yet to hear from his employers about the future.

There has been notable progress for the 33-year-old this season with regular game-time and improved performances under Usuthu coach Pablo Franco Martin who is understood to be one of his biggest fans.

The player was previously sent to train with the reserve team after he was reportedly told by the management that he was not part of the plans the last time.

“With Ekstein, it is quite a complex situation because the coach likes him, but it seems like not everyone at the club is convinced that he is the player to continue with, beyond the current season. It is safe to say that his future will be decided at the end of the season,” said the source.