Aces sign on midfielder Matsi

Mpho Matsi has become the latest addition to the Mpumalanga Black Aces squad for the new season as the comings and goings at AmaZayoni continue at pace.

The former University of Pretoria midfielder, who served the Tshwane club for six years, has joined as a free agent having turned down an offer to stay with AmaTuks at the end of last season.

The loss is a blow for the AmaTuks, but a win for AmaZayoni, who are looking to refresh their squad with the arrival of new coach Muhsin Ertugral.

"We made him an offer but, you know, he has been at the club for some time and maybe a change of scenery will do him good. He leaves with our best wishes," AmaTuks coach Sammy Troughton said.

Matsi is the second major signing at Aces since the end of last season after the arrival of Malawi international defender Limbikani Mzava.

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Mandla Masango is also linked with a move to the team, along with SuperSport United forward Thabiso Nkoana.

Reported to be leaving the team are veterans Tinashe Nengomasha, Valery Nahayo, Onyekachi Okonkwo, Abia Nale and Mzivukile Tom, among others.

Meanwhile, the club yesterday confirmed that 11-year-old Michael Schultz would spend a week training with English Premier League side Liverpool later this month. The striker was recommended to the Reds by their legendary midfielder John Barnes, who is a frequent visitor to SA for TV work and youth coaching.

Barnes gave glowing praise to the youngster. "I've watched kids all over the world playing at the highest level and Michael is right up there," Barnes said.

Left-footed Schultz plays for the Aces Under-13 team but stars against his older opponents either as a winger or central striker.