Sowetan

I still have a lot to offer

Baroka move part of growth plan

- By Tiyani wa ka Mabasa

New Baroka technical director Doctor Khumalo says he left Kaizer Chiefs on good terms and it’s time for him to grow.

Khumalo announced yesterday that he was joining Bakgaga and insisted that the move was purely for his growth.

He appeared to be at peace with his decision and was his usual jocular self. “I just want to tell you that I’m going back to play, because I still have a lot to offer. I know some of you are probably missing those [defence-] splitting passes,” quipped Khumalo, who retired in 2004.

On a serious note, he said he had left Chiefs by mutual consent.

“I don’t want any speculatio­ns to say there was something wrong at Chiefs. The chairman [Kaizer Motaung] said I am more than welcome to go back home if things do not work out [at Baroka],” said Khumalo during his press conference in Bramley, Johannesbu­rg, yesterday. “There was no beef.” The move came as a surprise considerin­g 16V’s long associatio­n with Amakhosi dating back to when he made his debut for the club in 1987 as a 16-year-old.

“I look forward to my new journey with the green and gold side. I am ready to further contribute to South African football,” he added.

Khumalo left with Motaung’s blessing and this was confirmed in Chiefs’ statement.

“Doctor came to us six months ago to discuss his future plans and desire to pursue other interests,” said Motaung.

“Doctor remains a legend of the club and we will always work with him whenever the opportunit­y presents itself.”

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 ?? / VELI NHLAPO ?? Doctor Khumalo.
/ VELI NHLAPO Doctor Khumalo.

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