Star-studded line-up for Aces

The Premier Soccer League outfits, Mpumalanga Black Aces, have already begun preparing for the Premier Soccer League 2015/16 season which kicks off in August.

This home team, which have already started training, has recruited a number of players to beef up the current squad.

Aces have confirmed that they have signed the former Maritzburg United shot-stopper, Shu-aib Walters and the former University of Pretoria defensive- midfielder Mpho “Makhekhe” Matsi.

Walters will team up with the team’s two experienced keepers, Jackson Mabokgwane and Bafana Nhlapo, and new keeper coach, Calvin Marlin. Walters is officially under contract with United until the end of June and will only join Aces on July 1.

Matsi, on the other hand, has been described as an excellent player who reads the game well and his versatility playing both in central defense and in midfield, will provide new coach Mushin Ertugral with some options.

Aces, which are busy with negotiations and contracts for their players, have also roped in the services of the former Kaizer Chiefs defender Patric Mabedi who will serve as Ertugral’s assistant with Graham Oosthuis as team manager. Mabedi will reunite with Ertugral. He captained Chiefs under the astute mentor. After leaving Chiefs, Mabedi moved to Moroka Swallows working initially in the youth department. Mabedi was a caretaker coach of the Dube Birds with Goodman Mazibuko, when Fani Madida resigned from his position as the club`s head coach in March.

Fondly remembered as “Bostik” or “General”, the Malawian international born in Blantyre, was a terrific defender and despite media gossip, was always Ertugral’s first choice assistant coach.

The remaining members of technical team from last season have been retained. Lombi Mabusela will remain with the Multichoice Diski team and Aces will announce his technical team soon.

Aces have also confirmed that the Kaizer Chiefs forward, Mandla Masango will not join their camp.