Former Marumo Gallants coach Alexandre Lafitte has described Jaisen Clifford as a dream player for any coach, explaining why he preferred to play him as a “super-sub”.
Despite starting only six matches across all competitions, Clifford scored four goals during the campaign. Three of those strikes came against teams that finished in the league’s top five, with the former Etar Veliko Tarnovo winger finding the net against Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United.
Much of his season was spent as an impact substitute, making 22 appearances from the bench and regularly delivering in decisive moments. Lafitte revealed that the decision to use the 30-year-old forward predominantly as a substitute in the first half of the season was purely tactical.
ALEXANDRE LAFITTE EXPLAINS THE ‘SUPER-SUB’ ROLE FOR JAISEN CLIFFORD
“We often used him as a substitute during the first part of the season because we felt his profile was particularly effective when spaces started to open up,” Lafitte told FARPost. “His ability to make a difference in the final third, beat opponents in one-on-one situations and be decisive in key moments made him an excellent impact player.”
However, Clifford’s role under Lafitte evolved as the season progressed before the coach’s suspension in March.
“As the season went on, he made significant improvements, particularly from a conditioning perspective. We felt he became more capable of repeating high-intensity efforts and maintaining his level from the start of matches. As a result, he got more starting opportunities during the second half of the season.”
The Frenchman also credited Clifford’s European experience for shaping his professionalism and consistency.
“I believe that his experiences in Europe have helped him understand what it takes to perform at a high level in terms of discipline, preparation and daily commitment.
“He is a player whose standards and daily work ethic are remarkable. Whether he starts or comes on as a substitute, his commitment and attitude remain the same. He always puts the team’s interests ahead of his own situation,” he said.
WHAT NEXT FOR JAISEN CLIFFORD?
The 29-year-old coach considers Clifford’s greatest asset to be his versatility. As his contract with Marumo Gallants approaches expiration, he is weighing his next move. After a one-season stint with Bahlabane Ba Ntwa, during which he quietly boosted his reputation in the Betway Premiership, Clifford will be free to join a club of his choice.
While Gallants are reportedly eager to retain him, interest from other clubs is expected to provide him with multiple options before making his decision.
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