Linda Moreotsene

While new Mamelodi Sundowns coach Trott Moloto has been up front about how positive the players have been post-Gordon Igesund, players were cagey about the effect the former coach's departure has had on them.

As the coach and his assistant Harris Choeu took them through their paces yesterday, it was difficult to believe this was the same group that was recently rumoured to be hit by internal strife and indiscipline.

Except for Mbulelo Mabizela, who the club says has gone AWOL, nothing seemed amiss with them.

"The players are motivated, enthusiastic and willing to start winning. When I talked to them for the first time, I explained that I will come up with a system that will suit them. They are a great team, and we will work towards being competitive again, starting with our game against Moroka Swallows," Moloto said.

Brave words, since Ajax Cape Townare ahead of the champions on the log by 17 points.

Moloto is assured though, that the the Brazillians are capable of not only launching a domestic league challenge, but of winning the Nedbank Cup and doing better than they did last year in the African Champions League.

One player said he did not think there was anything particularly differen.

"I think we were as committed before as we are now. In the end, it is all about the level of trust that has been built between the coach and players. We have always been professional and, regardless of how unpleasant the situation, we always have to do our jobs," he said unconvincingly.