Motshwari now a dad
While he has been out nursing his injury, Phakaaathi has learnt that Orlando Pirates midfielder Ben Motshwari (below) has also been taking care of his newborn baby girl. It is understood that Motswari had a daughter with his long-time girlfriend, and the 29-year old has already been showing her off to the world. “Ben is really happy, he is enjoying being a dad and the little girl has brought so much joy in his life. He is a proud father and when you go to his social media profiles you will see what I am talking about,” said the source. It is still not certain when the midfielder will get back to action for the Buccaneers – the last time Bucs gave an update on his injury they revealed he would be back in training within three weeks. Stormy petrel urged to reform
Mamelodi Sundowns players said they have tried their best to talk to Gaston Sirino (above), who always seems to be prone to losing his temper on the pitch. Sirino has been shown numerous yellow cards for his behaviour and was once shown a red card last season. “We have tried our best and we are tired of talking to him because nothing has changed,” one senior player at the club told Phakaaathi. “The sad thing is that the team need the player and we cannot afford to lose him because he is a key player in the team. He scores for us and also assists all the time,” he added. Tinkler’s days may be numbered
Maritzburg United coach Eric Tinkler (above) is believed to be walking a tightrope and the club have allegedly given him one more chance to redeem himself. The Team of Choice have failed to register a victory in any of their five Absa Premiership games and find themselves in the relegation zone – a place where they spent the whole of last season. “The club have invested in a lot of players this season because they don’t want to find themselves in the same position as last season. The coach knows he has to win against Chippa United or else he will edge closer to the exit door.” Players affected by Micho saga
According to a source at the club, the departure of Micho Sredojevic (above) really affected most players in the Orlando Pirates team and being knocked out of the Caf Champions League as well as the MTN8 made matters worse. “People expect so much from Pirates and the team hasn’t delivered in the last couple of months. and if you remember, we all thought this season was the season the players will rise to the occasion, but unfortunately, things started badly. It’s really worrying because already we are out of two competitions. But the spirit is high,” said the source.