Ex-Pirates defender among players training with Maritzburg United

A former Orlando Pirates defender is among players that are training with Maritzburg United as they’re preparing for their first season in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.

The Team of Choice suffered relegation from SA’s topflight last season after they fell short in the PSL Promotion Playoffs. Meanwhile, Cape Town Spurs secured promotion after finishing on top of the table of the three-team mini-league.

The Midlands side is gathering a new-look team after losing some crucial members of their squad following the end of the previous campaign.

FORMER ORLANDO PIRATES DEFENDER AMONG PLAYERS TRAINING WITH MARITZBURG UNITED

According to a source known to FARPost, the former Buccaneers defender Tshepo Gumede and former Golden Arrows striker are training with United.

The duo is hoping to secure contracts with the Pietermaritzburg-based side before the start of the 2023/24 season.

Last season, Tshepo Gumede was playing for Marumo Gallants who were also unfortunate to suffer automatic relegation after finishing in the 16th position on the DStv Premiership standings.

He spent two seasons with Bahlabani Ba Ntwa as he joined the club in 2021 from the Western Cape’s now-defunct side Cape Umoya.

Meanwhile, Michael Gumede was in the books of Richards Bay FC last season after he signed at the beginning of the season following his exit from Abafana Bes’thende.

However, the striker struggled to get minutes as he only made two appearances in all competitions at the Natal Rich Boyz.

MARITZBURG TO LOSE MORE PLAYERS?

FARPost understands more Maritzburg United players have been looking elsewhere for top-flight opportunities while there’s still time before the transfer window closes.

Meanwhile, the club is also said to be looking to make money through the transfers of some of their highly-rated players.

Karim Kimvuidi and Rowan Human are among the names that have been linked with teams in Gauteng. Genino Palace, who’s currently with Bafana Bafana squad in the COSAFA Cup, has also attracted interest from different DStv Premierships clubs.

Moreover, Maritzburg have appointed Zipho Dlangalala to take up the head coach after they parted ways with Fadlu Davids. The new gaffer began his duties on Tuesday as the club is continuing with the pre-season.

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