Newly signed Royal AM defender Happy Jele has reflected on his struggles to find a club after he parted company with Orlando Pirates at the end of the previous DStv Premiership season.
The 36-year-old centre-back cut ties with the Buccaneers after spending 16 years on the club’s books.
This was after his contract ended, and the Soweto giants decided to offer him a non-playing role. He rejected it, expressing his intentions to continue playing.
At the beginning of the campaign, he was heavily linked with Thwihli Thwahla, but he ended up spending six months unattached and only signed for the KZN outfit in January.
When he left the Sea Robbers, Jele believes he was a victim of bad timing since the season was about to begin, and most clubs were done signing. Thus, he struggled to find a place to call home.
HAPPY JELE EXPLAINS WHY IT WAS TOUGH TO FIND A CLUB
“I would say it was difficult for each and every team that wanted my services because I remember I left Orlando Pirates when the league was [about] to start,” Jele explained when asked by FARPost.
“Obviously, every one had his own team by that time.
“So, it was difficult for me, but I thank Royal AM for coming on board in my life.”
‘Magents’, as he’s well-known, emphasised his desire to continue playing regularly and believes he can continue for a few more years.
MAGENTS EYEING REGULAR SPOT AT ROYAL AM
“Yeah, that’s why I’m here. There is still desire,” he added.
“Even my former team wanted to give me an offer, but I told myself that I still needed more years because I could see my body could still contribute a lot.
“Obviously, Royal AM came on board, and I’m here. I want to contribute to the team.”
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