Marumo Gallants have bolstered their squad by signing Jaisen Clifford on a short-term deal, after he was previously linked with Orlando Pirates. The one-year contract includes an option for an additional year.
Clifford’s stint at Bulgarian club Etar Veliko Tarnovo ended on June 30, after joining them in March 2024. The 29-year-old winger had a productive loan at Sportist Svoge, where he made a strong impact. During his stint, he scored seven goals and provided one assist in 33 appearances across all competitions.
His impressive performances last season attracted interest from various European clubs. Pirates reportedly also shown interest in Clifford as they sought to strengthen their wings ahead of a challenging season.
Able to play on both flanks, Clifford developed through the SuperSport United youth structures before leaving the club in 2015 to join Gudja United in Malta.
This marked his first club outside South Africa. He later played for Mqabba FC, then moved to Lithuanian club Stumbras, where he played a key role in winning the Lithuanian Cup in 2017. His journey also includes stints at Condeixa in Portugal, Cape Town All-Stars in South Africa, and FC Van in Armenia.
JAISEN CLIFFORD JOINS SIMO LUTHULI AT MARUMO GALLANTS
At Marumo Gallants, he joins Simo Luthuli, another player with extensive European experience, who recently signed a two-year deal. Together, they are expected to make the Free State club more competitive in the Betway Premiership.
Luthuli is returning to South Africa’s top division after a brief stint with Arrows during the 2021/22 PSL season. An ownership saga disrupted his previous stint in the PSL.
Meanwhile, Gallants recently announced several player departures, including Nigerian goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi and Malawian striker Gabadinho Mhango.
Other players who have left the team are Dino Ndlovu, Ibrahima Aminata Conde, Kenneth Nthatheni, Theodore Siyabulela Shai, Kamohelo Mahlatsi, Kopano Lehlohonolo Thuntsane, and Vusi Sibiya.
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