Billiat not ready for Europe: coach

AJAX CAPE Town star Khama Billiat is not yet ready to play in Europe because he lacks the mental strength.

This is according to his coach, Marten Stekelenburg.

Billiat and three other players are expected to go for trials at Ajax Amsterdam in Holland.

"Billiat is not ready to play in Europe as he still needs to work on his finishing and mental readiness," said Stekelenburg. "I worked in Europe for 10 years and I know how difficult things are. Billiat is an excellent player, but he is certainly not ready to go there.

"It's no use sending a player to sit on the bench, but rather have him stay at the team where he plays regularly. But it would be a nice experience for the four players to go."

Stekelenburg also revealed that they will be signing at least one player during the transfer window period next month, but would not divulge the name of the player.

Meanwhile, Stekelenburg denied media reports that there was tension between him and Thembinkosi "Terror" Fanteni. Fanteni started Saturday's match against Lamontville Golden Arrows on the bench and was brought on during the second half, but he later limped off.

"My relationship with Terror is good. Yes, as a coach, I do fight with all the players as I believe that I need to push them hard to give their best and that happens to all the players, not only one player.

"So if I push Terror, it's not because I have something against him. I want the best out of every player," he said.