Mbesuma: I turned down five teams
VETERAN striker Collins Mbesuma turned down over five clubs in favour of newly promoted Highlands Park.
Mbesuma, who has signed a three-year contract, was one of 12 players unveiled by the ambitious club in Kempton Park yesterday.
Bloemfontein Celtic were serious about having the striker on their books, but the Zambian wanted to settle in Johannesburg with his family, which is why he chose to sign for Highlands.
Mbesuma requested to be released by Mpumalanga Black Aces after the owners – brothers Mario and George Marfou – sold the club’s status to John Comitis, who then renamed it Cape Town City after their relocation to the Mother City.
Mbesuma will add valuable experience up front, as Highlands desperately need a sharpshooter.
Last season, defender Jermaine Christian was Highlands’ top scorer with eight goals. “They [Celtic] spoke to me, but I also have to put my family first. I have to stay in Joburg. I have been moving around for too long, so I just want to settle in Joburg,” Mbesuma said.
“I had some issues at Aces. It had nothing to do with football, but I asked them if I can be a free agent. I have signed for three years here. I had a long chat with the bosses before I signed.
“They went through the history of the team and I was happy. That’s why I chose to join them.”
He added: “There were maybe six or seven [clubs interested in his services]. There were teams in the PSL and I had some offers outside. But I want to remain in the PSL.”
Not long after he was unveiled, Mbesuma said he would be targeting the top goal-scorer award after winning it for the second time in his career last season.
He finished the season on 14 goals, a far cry from the 25 he scored at Kaizer Chiefs to win the top scorer award in 2004/2005.
“As a striker I want to win the top goal-scorer [award] every season. I hope I can continue where I left off and hold on to my top scorer award. I like challenges. I will work extra hard and work for the team. It’s not only about scoring, sometimes I have to create. I still have more years to play. I am only 32.”