Butler justifies Moloi call-up
Mqondisi Dube | Friday February 28, 2014 12:24
Moloi, unattached due to his troubled spell at DRC club Don Bosco received a surprise call-up. Butler had made it clear that players would make the squad based on form and Moloi has been inactive. However, Butler told Mmegi Sport yesterday that his decision was based on video evidence and he was aware of Moloi’s devastating impact. “Dirang has come in. I have seen his videos. I made the decision. I was not influenced. I know he is clubless, but I do not believe in kicking a man when he is down.
“I had a conversation with Moloi, it was constructive. He is keen to play. I am not interested in the past. This is a clean page,” Butler said.
Asked about Simisane Mathumo who has played second fiddle to Obonye Moswate at Township Rollers, but got the nod, Butler said the player had impressed in the two matches he saw him. “His movements impressed me. He will compliment (Gaborone United’s) Osego Gaotewe well.” On leaving out Mochudi Centre Chiefs players, Butler said he had watched the defending champions but no one raised his hand. However, he is keeping close tabs on defender, Thabiso Khunwane.
“There are players with potential at Chiefs, but I think the team has been going through a lot recently. I do not think they are playing well. I had a look at Bonolo Fraizer but he did not perform well in the two matches I saw,” Butler said. Fraizer started the season on a high after an off season switch from Nico United, but has failed to replicate the form in recent matches.
In calling up players, Butler said he was looking for those who are quick, strong and comfortable on the ball. Age was also a factor.
Steely Bloemfontein Celtic utility player Mogogi Gabonamong was left out and the coach said he had never heard of the holding midfielder. “We will only have two days of training and the fans should not expect us to play like Brazil. My name is not Houdini,” he said. The squad assembles on Sunday evening with the first training session on Monday. Meanwhile, Butler said he had forwarded the name of his preferred assistant coach although he would be fine with any choice the Botswana Football Association (BFA) makes.
“Names have been mentioned. I have put forward a name. I had a chat with Pio Paul and someone else,” he said.
Butler said he was looking for an assistant with qualifications, thorough knowledge of the game and overseas experience. “But whatever decision the NEC will come up with, I am fine.”