Moorosi Tsiane
BANTU attacking midfielder Litšepe Marabe has landed in hot water with the Mafeteng-based side’s management after he failed to report for pre-season training which began on 4 July 2016.
According to team president Leuta Leuta, Marabe had not pitched up for pre-season training. Leuta said he received a phone call from Marabe this past week in which he tried to explain why he had not surfaced.
However, Leuta said he directed the midfielder to Bantu general manager Khabisi Molantoa.
“Marabe has not been attending the team’s training sessions, and this week he called me trying to explain why he hasn’t showed up. I directed him to the manager because he is the person eligible to deal with such issues,” he said.
“Our players need to understand that they have to follow the right procedures. They can’t just jump to me if any issues arise.”
When asked if any disciplinary measures would be taken on Marabe, Leuta said Molantoa would make the determination.
“It is actually up to the manager. If he thinks Marabe’s conduct warrants being hauled to the disciplinary committee then that will be the case. However, in the meantime, we will be using the no-work-no-pay rule,” he said.
“He is still contracted to us, so he is our player and is supposed to have started training with the other players. The sad thing about this whole situation is he pulls this stunt almost every season. So, he needs to change his approach.”
Leuta said A Matšo Matebele were determined to progress from the semiprofessional to professional level, adding that they would not tolerate indiscipline in the team.
“Our coach has been clear that there are no stars in the team. Therefore, all the players are equal since we want to run this team professionally,” he said.
“We are only going to work with players who want to work. Those who don’t want will have to watch from the stands.”
Contacted for comment, Marabe curtly said: “I am currently dealing with some personal issues, and am not in a position to comment on the issue because I don’t want to jeopardize my relations with Bantu.”
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