Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Former Bafana Bafana captain Steve Komphela is back with Free State Stars where he made a name for himself as one of the toughest defenders.

This follows the sudden resignation of Sammy Troughton, who made it clear to club boss Mike Mokoena he was not happy to serve as an assistant coach.

Komphela was unveiled yesterday by Mokoena as joint head coach of Ea Lla Koto where he will be reunited with Themba Sithole.

Sithole and Komphela played for Stars 15 years ago.

"We are delighted to have Steve back, this time as a joint coach. The man knows the culture of the club," said Mokoena.

Komphela will be on the bench when they host Mamelodi Sundowns at Charles Mopeli Stadium on Saturday at 3pm.

Sowetan has learnt that Komphela decided to join Stars after discussions with Ray Hack, Safa chief executive, on Monday.

Komphela is still contracted to Safa until December as coach of the Under-23s who failed to qualify for the Beijing Olympics.

Two weeks ago, Komphela joined Carara Kicks on a part-time basis as a technical consultant. Kicks are owned by Mike Mokoena's son, Motebang .

Komphela's contract will be discussed by the Safa executive at a meeting next week.