Sekhukhune United’s midfielder, Lindokuhle Mtshali, is in hot water after an unapproved absence from the team this week.
Mtshali, who was not part of the squad in the match against Polokwane City FC last weekend, requested permission ‘to conduct ancestral rituals’ and return after the weekend. Babina Noko hosted Rise n Shine at the Peter Mokaba Stadium last Saturday and emerged 2-0 victors.
However, upon the team’s return from the match, Mtshali was conspicuously absent, only reappearing on Friday just before the team travels to Polokwane for their next match, raising concerns about his commitment to the club.
This situation comes as Sekhukhune gears up for a crucial game against TS Galaxy this Sunday in the Betway Premiership.
The Limpopo side is currently in third place and is eager to finish in the top three to book a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup. They will have to finish third to play in the interclub competition.
WHAT LINDOKUHLE MTSHALI SAID ABOUT GOING AWOL
Contacted for comment, Mtshali said he thought “everything was under control”.
“I was at training today and I spoke to them. I didn’t attend training this week besides today [Friday]. My last training session was last week, Thursday,” Mtshali told FARPost.
“I thought everything was under control, even the director [McDonald Makhubedu] we spoke to today.”
Mtshali joined the club in June 2024 from the now-defunct Moroka Swallows. He enjoyed a season marked by impressive performances.
During his final season with The Birds, he played 25 games, contributing four goals and three assists.
According to FARPost sources, Mtshali is on the radar of teams like Richards Bay and AmaZulu FC. He has struggled for game time this season.
The implications of his unapproved absence could affect his standing in the squad. With heightened scrutiny on his commitment, it will be interesting to see how the club handles this situation and what it means for Mtshali’s future with Sekhukhune United.
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