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New stars for Celtic

Bloemfontein Celtic unveiled their new signings yesterday, but probably the best news for Siwelele supporters is that winger Thapelo Morena will be staying at the club, according to coach Serame Letsoaka.

The new recruits are Mpho Maruping, Cheslyn Jampies, Tlou Molekwane, Deon Hotto, Sibusiso Mxoyana, Atusaye Nyondo and Khetokwakhe Masuku.

"We are trying to bring a proper balance in terms of players who are here," said Letsoaka yesterday.

"When I got here, there were too many players in one area and other areas did not have enough.

"We are happy with the signings and we are finalising one or two more players to bring in. We will probably announce them when we unveil the new jersey."

Molekwane and Mxoyana, who played for Letsoaka at national under-20 level, will have a chance to revive their careers.

"Molekwane will come in at right back, but we also have [Mthokozisi] Dube in that position. It means we have a right back that can sit and defend [Molekwane] and a right back who attacks in Dube.

"It's the same thing on the left. Jampies can sit and defend and Mxoyana can attack. That's the balance I am talking about."

Meanwhile, Letsoaka says clubs have been contacting Morena directly instead of going through the right channels, promising the speedy winger "heaven and earth".

Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns are known admirers of Morena, who was one of Celtic's best players last season.

"Thapelo is staying. Management has agreed that Thapelo will not be sold," Letsoaka said.

"There are clubs that were trying to contact the player directly.

"We told the player to tell the clubs to follow the proper channels because Morena does not belong to himself.

"If they want the player, they must contact us. Why should they go and promise him heaven and earth?" asked Letsoaka, who revealed they could not agree a transfer with an undisclosed club for the services of Morena.

"There's a club that communicated with us regarding Morena, but things did not work out. We need to challenge for the championship."

Celtic, meanwhile, confirmed the exits of Lerato Lamola and Vuyani Ntanga, who are joining Golden Arrows, as well as the departure of Maritzburg United-bound Bevan Fransman. Thabang Matuka and Julius Likontsane will be loaned out.

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