Mahlasela not looking to replace Ekstein at Chiefs

With Pule Ekstein chased away from Kaizer Chiefs just when he was becoming the team’s play maker, Kabelo Mahlasela has revealed that he will not be looking to replace his former teammate but will rather give his best for the benefit of Amakhosi.

Ekstein was released last week after contract extension talks collapsed. Kgotso Malope, Gustavo Paez and Virgil Vries have also been sent packing from Naturena.

READ: Kaizer Chiefs explain Ekstein and Co exit

Mahlasela said it was painful to see them go.

“I wouldn’t comment much on that issue because I wasn’t there when the negotiations were happening for them to come here and I wasn’t part of the negotiations when they left.

“But one thing I can say is that I will miss them because they became friends, we became like family. As footballers we come here and spend a lot of time together and we develop a bond.

But football is like that… people come and go. Players come and go. Coaches come and go. At the end of the day that is how it is. So I cannot say anything about it,” said the 28-year-old former Bloemfontein Celtic player.

On taking over Ekstein’s role, Mahlasela said: “Me and Pule play a similar style. We are quick and can dribble our way past players. But I wouldn’t say I can fill in and do exactly what Pule was doing. But I will do my best to help the team going forward.”

ALSO READ: Kaizer Chiefs release goalkeeper Vries

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