SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt has reacted to striker Tashreeq Morris’ imminent move to Kaizer Chiefs while also announcing that Amakhosi forward Christian Saile is heading to Matsatsantsa.
Morris, who is expected to undergo a medical with Chiefs in the coming days, was absent from the SuperSport’s squad that suffered a 1-0 defeat to Polokwane City FC in a league tie on Friday evening at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.
This is due to his red card for a reckless and dangerous tackle on Relebogile Mokhuoane near the dugout during the match against Sekhukhune last Sunday. As a result, Morris is serving a two-game suspension.
Meanwhile, Saile, set to move in the opposite direction, was part of Chiefs’ training session in Naturena on Thursday as the team prepared for their Betway Premiership clash against Sekhukhune United at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.
But Hunt has all but confirmed the finalisation of the swap deal between Chiefs and SuperSport involving Saile and Morris. As reported by FARPost, Chiefs are eager to offload Saile to free up a valuable foreign spot on their squad, paving the way for the potential signing of a new overseas striker.
The DR Congo international – Saile, who joined Amakhosi two years ago, has struggled for playing time under coach Nasreddine Nabi this season. He has made only two starts this season and has appeared as a substitute in four matches.
GAVIN HUNT SAYS MORRIS’ DEPARTURE IS A BIG BLOW FOR SUPERSPORT UNITED
Hunt admitted that Morris’ departure to the Soweto giants is a loss for his team. However, the SuperSport coach recognised that the move presented an opportunity for Morris to grow, making it an understandable decision for the player.
Morris, who was without a club after leaving Sekhukhune, received a lifeline from SuperSport in October when they faced a striker crisis due to Bradley Grobler’s long-term injury. However, the 30-year-old’s goal-scoring record at SuperSport has been underwhelming, with only two goals scored in 10 appearances across all competitions.
Kaizer Chiefs coach Nabi is a fan of Morris’s attacking style. He sees him as a dynamic forward who excels at pressing the opposition and making intelligent off-the-ball movements.
“Yeah, he just came in two months ago. Well, for us, you know, obviously it’s a blow, but you know, it’s a great opportunity for him,” said Hunt. “And you know, I mean, how many players [have left us]?
“Financially [the move] will help him [Morris], so it is a no-brainer for the boy, so what can I do?
When questioned about the transfer of Christian Saile to SuperSport, Hunt simply stated, “Yes, he is coming in.”
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