Ajax CT defend decision on Majoro

AJAX Cape Town's failure to snap up Lehlohonolo Majoro, after the striker came to Cape Town to negotiate a possible move, has drawn heavy criticism from local media with the club offering a spirited defence.

Not only did Majoro slip through the hands of Ajax, the club also failed to secure new contracts with Thulani Hlatshwayo, Lebogang Manyama and Thato Mokeke and the trio have signed with other teams for next season.

It has led to questions about the Urban Warriors' transfer policy and immediate chances of being competitive in the Premier Soccer League.

But Ajax went on the defensive in a club statement released in response to the criticism.

"Evolution can package itself in two different ways, either a squad can change its approach in the way they play through new tactics, systems and operations or a squad can evolve with new players coming in and developing alongside the experienced players.

"For the Ajax Cape Town squad, the change during Muhsin Ertugral's period in charge since his re-appointment before the end of our last campaign follows the second option," said the club, making clear they were going the youth route over the next few seasons.

"The loss of Lebo Manyama to SuperSport United and the departure of Thulani Hlatshwayo and Thato Mokeke at the end of the season will open the door to up-and-coming academy players like Riyaad Norodien, Rivaldo Coetzee and Ayabulela Maqwaka, who we believe have the skill, ability and the determination to stake a claim in Muhsin's team," added the statement.