Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has explained why the exit-linked defender Ismail Toure didn’t take part in their past two games.
The Ivorian defender, Toure was nowhere to be seen during the encounters against Nsingizini Hotspurs in the two legs of the CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round.
He was last in action in the MTN8 quarterfinal three weeks ago where they downed TS Galaxy 3-1 at the Danie Craven Stadium.
Speaking after the match against Nsingizini, Barker stated Toure is desperate to secure a move to Europe before the end of this transfer window.
He further elaborated that, considering the circumstances of the last two matches and the nature of the opponents, the decision was made to grant the 27-year-old centre-back some time away.
BARKER ON WHY ISMAIL TOURE DIDN’T PLAY PAST TWO GAMES
“Toure at this stage, it’s a difficult one, hopefully…European closes at the end of August. He’s got ambitions and that’s where he desperately wants to go,” said Barker.
“At this stage, nothing has materialised. So, if the window gets closed, obviously he has to get on with things.
“But for now, we felt it was the type of opposition and type of game that we didn’t need to add further stress to him at this stage.I’m sure by this time next week, we’ll have a clear indication of the way forward.”
The Western Cape side has already lost its key players in Iqraam Rayners who signed for Mamelodi Sundowns and Deano Van Rooyen who switched to Orlando Pirates.
Additionally, they also parted ways with Qobolwakhe Sibande who went on to sign for TS Galaxy while Nhlanhla Mgaga and Salifu Colley left as free agents.
The Steve Barker-led side has also acquired new talents Omega Mdaka, Lehlohonolo Mojela, Sanele Barns, and Brian Onyango while Ibraheem Jabaar returned from loan at M.Petah Tikva.
