Sekhukhune United are on the verge of parting ways with head coach Eric Tinkler following a dip in form that has derailed what once looked like a promising Betway Premiership campaign.
FARPost has learnt that Tinkler and the club are discussing a possible mutual termination of his contract, as pressure mounts on the club’s technical setup.
Babina Noko were, at one stage this season, setting the pace at the top of the table. However, a string of underwhelming results has seen them slip to fifth place, now seven points behind third-placed Kaizer Chiefs, who still have two games in hand.
The club were aiming at returning to the CAF Confederation Cup, but their hopes are shrinking. As a result, the club’s recent form has been a major concern. Prior to their narrow 1-0 victory over relegation-threatened Magesi FC on Sunday, Sekhukhune had endured a six-match winless run in the league. That sequence included three draws and defeats to Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows, significantly denting their momentum.
Their struggles have not been limited to league action. Sekhukhune were also eliminated from the Nedbank Cup after suffering a penalty shootout defeat to Milford FC, further compounding the club’s frustrations.
While the weekend win offered some temporary relief, it appears it may not be enough to salvage Tinkler’s position, with the club now exploring a change in leadership as they look to revive their season ambitions.
TINKLER ABSENT FROM TRAINING AS SEKHUKHUNE WEIGH UP COACHING CHANGE
Tinkler, who has previously enjoyed spells with several top-flight clubs, now faces an uncertain future as discussions over his potential exit loom.
Indications are that the former Cape Town City FC coach was not involved in the team’s activities on Monday. The ex-Bafana Bafana midfielder joined the club in March last year. He replaced Lehlohonolo Seema and has overseen 38 matches at the club.
He has guided the club to 16 wins, 12 draws and 10 losses. With six games left in the season, the club may consider an interim option while they search for a long-term one.
McDonald Makhubedu, who serves as sporting director, has previously coached the team, and Kaitano Tembo is involved in the club’s youth structures.
All things being equal, the club may travel to the Western Cape this weekend with a new man in charge. They face Stellenbosch FC in a Betway Premiership league match.
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