Safa probe confuses Teko

The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder is one of four players – the others being Sthembiso Ngcobo, Oupa Manyisa and Thabo Matlaba – being investigated and to be charged for “bunking” national team duty. They were in the initial squad called up by former coach Gordon Igesund, from which 11 players later withdrew.

Modise believes he is being ill-treated and singled out from the rest of the players who withdrew from the squad. He adds that the matter was handled by Sundowns of his behalf.

“I do not understand why people are saying that I did not follow the correct procedure when the team called me up,” Modise insisted.

“Sundowns undertook that procedure on my behalf and I am sure they followed protocol with Safa. It is hard to understand the reason behind the masses pointing a finger at me, saying I might undergo prosecution. Why aren’t they talking about the other players?”

Even though Safa has indicated that the quartet are under investigation, Modise said he has not received any official word about the “ongoing” investigation.

“As far as I know, my team had talks with Safa and both parties discussed the situation. There has been no word from the parties at the top about me not following procedure as yet. So it is confusing to hear these things.”

Meanwhile, Downs have signed former Moroka Swallows central midfielder Asavela “Shooz” Mbekile.

Mbekile joined the Brazilians on a four-year deal and said the prospect of playing in the Caf Champions League was a strong motivator in him penning the deal. The Tshwane giants are expected to release more names of their recent acquisitions over the next few days.