Alex football stalwart and coach of TS Sporting, Benson Mhlongo could be on the verge of parting ways with the newly established White River outfit which plies its trade in the National First Division.
This follows the appointment of Mfanimbela Maseko as the interim coach after what the club described as the absence without official leave of Mhlongo, whom it said had been away from the club since 13 November.
“We must, however, indicate that his decision may have been triggered by our request that he work closely with the technical director Sammy Troughton. He indicated to us that he wanted to consult his manager on the issue and he would revert to us on his decision,” said a statement from the club signed by chairperson SJ Thobela.
The statement further said Mhlongo’s manager had informed the club via email that his client had taken a ‘sabbatical leave’.
The club will make a proper announcement as to what the way forward will be in due course, continued the statement, adding that Mhlongo’s ‘unexpected absence came as a shock to us’.
“But when we look deep into it, we feel extremely grateful to have worked with him and the level of discipline he introduced to the team. He quickly turned things around as seen by the position the team currently occupies in the league.
“The one thing we cherish about Mr Benson Mhlongo is how much he truly cares about developing people and developing not only soccer players but good people.
Mhlongo had an illustrious career at Bidvest Wits, Platinum Stars, Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. Before joining TS Sporting as head coach, he was an assistant at the Buccaneers.
Details: Zama Nene 013 750 7194; zama@tssfc.co.za
