Few footballers of note would happily opt for the choice of a free transfer.

Few footballers of note would happily opt for the choice of a free transfer.

For, while it may appear to release the player from apparent bondage, it may well signal the end of one's career.

The kiss-of-death stems from the prevailing wisdom in sport that a player released on free transfer may well be an albatross jettisoned for the betterment of his previous employer.

Taking this wisdom to heart, we can only express concern at Jabu (Pule) Mahlangu's quiet exit from Orlando Pirates to the wilderness. The latest turn of events no doubt signals the star's flagging fortunes. The question is, can he be saved or could this be the beginning of his slide into oblivion?

What a talented footballer? What a mampara!