Ostriches confident of Makgantai clearance
Koketso Kgoboge | Thursday September 14, 2017 15:58
There has been a standoff over the release of the player from the DRC club. The Zebras forward is in the books of AS Vita after joining on a two-year deal last season.
The two clubs are reported to be at loggerheads over the transfer of the player and United have reported the matter to FIFA.
United accuse the Kinshasa club of applying underhand tactics despite failing to pay the agreed fees. In order to have the player available for their campaign this season, United’s vice chairperson, Kennekae Nkape said they have compromised and settled for a loan move.
He said despite the loan agreement, Vita are still refusing with the International Transfer Certificate (ITC) on the basis that they are loaning out the player and not selling. He said the confusion has prompted them to seek redress fromFIFA and they are confident Makgantai will be playing for them this season.
“It is just an issue of confusion on the part of AS Vita really,” he said. “According to our understanding, they (Vita) think a loan move doesn’t require the ITC; that is why they are reluctant to release it,” he said.
“We have reported the matter to FIFA to make them understand. At the moment, they (FIFA) are communicating with the association and we are up to date.
We believe the matter will be resolved soon and he will be good to go, but he might miss the start of the season.” Makgantai took part in the Ostriches’ pre-season preparations and he is still training with the Orapa side.
Meanwhile, Omaatla ‘Dunga’ Kebatho has returned to full training with the rest of the squad following a two-month lay off nursing a recurring shoulder injury.
The player aggravated the injury back in June during the Zebras 1-0 defeat to Mauritania in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Orapa assistant coach, Zacharia Mudzadzi said the player looks in good shape.
“He is a strong player and he is doing well with the rest of the squad,” Mudzadzi said.
“Physically, he is in the right shape, but he is still under observation and the final word will come from the doctors.”