Mashaba holds out for better deal

FREE State Stars hope to have midfielder Mzikayise Mashaba back in training in the next few days.

The left-winger and the club have been involved in a stand-off that has seen the player go on strike and begin training on his own in Johannesburg. He is unhappy with his salary and is seeking an improved contract, or a move to Bidvest Wits, who have reportedly offered Stars R3-million for the player's services.

The Clever Boys have also promised to triple the player's wages if he makes the move.

Stars assistant coach Themba Sithole described Mashaba's absence from the win on Tuesday night over Chippa United only as "logistics between the player and the club", but general manager Rantsi Mokoena was more forthcoming.

"He is holding out for an improved contract and we will be speaking to his representatives about that. We hope to have everything concluded perhaps by the end of this week and have the player back with us," Mokoena said.

Stars have won two from two in the league at the start of the campaign, despite losing arguably their four most influential players from last season. Edward Manqele was snapped up by Mamelodi Sundowns, while the trio of Ayanda Gcaba, Mpho Makola and Manti Moholo left for Orlando Pirates.

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