Speaking to Mmegi Sport yesterday, Masire said it is good to have both teams in the Premier League because they attract huge crowds. However, he warned both teams ahead of what he terms a demanding season. “
I was not really impressed by the way Chiefs played this past season and would like to urge the management to put its house in order,” he said.
According to Masire, who made his name as a player at Chiefs, the team needs to buy quality players. “Under the circumstances, I think the technical team did their best to keep the team in the top flight but they need players,” said Masire. He pointed out that if the management heeds his advice, their hordes of supporters will come back to the games and rally behind the team fully.
“It has been a disappointing season for Chiefs’ supporters and at times, I felt for them because they really love their team,” he said.
Masire was part of the team which was relegated in 1995. He said that at the time the conditions were not conducive but he had to stay and make sure the team returned to the top flight.
“Believe you me, it was not easy but as one of the senior players then, I had to motivate the youngsters. We had to stay put,” he said.
After Chiefs’ relegation, Masire said Rollers wanted to recruit him and the late Irvin Moyo but they declined. Masire’s name still remains in most supporters’ lips as the possible candidate for the assistant coach’s position in the coming season.
Some supporters say he had served the team well and had never let them down even during the times of need.
Asked if he can still return to the hot bench at Magosi, he responded: “I will always remain faithful to the team and will return if they need my services”.
Magosi have already prepared a list of players they would like to recruit for the coming season. Relegated Jwaneng Comets duo of Bobo Motlhalane and Godfrey Makgarapa are favourites to land at Chiefs.
On Rollers, Masire said: “I’ve never enjoyed this league without Rollers because they are a big team.”
He pointed out that even at the recent play-offs, Rollers showed class and proved that they were ready for big time soccer.
“This does not mean that they should relax. They must go all out to get players who can beef their team,” said Masire.
The former Chiefs’ player said if Rollers can continue with the kind of attitude they displayed during the past season, they will become a force to reckon with.
Rollers are said to be interested in the services of Ecco City striker Malepa “Chippa” Bolelang.
Though Ecco City management still believe that Bolelang will be with the team in their maiden season at the top flight league, the player is said to be keen to join Rollers.
Bolelang confirmed that he was in talks with Mapalastina but nothing has been formalised. Other clubs are also said to be interested in his services.
Another player who is rumoured to be on his way to Rollers is Makgarapa even though Chiefs are said to be interested in him. Makgarapa captained Comets in the past season and his sterling performance has attracted a number of clubs.
