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Former Orlando Pirates’ speedy winger Tlou “Gautrain” Segolela still hopes for another chance at top-flight football after spending a few seasons in the lower divisions.
The 30-year-old is with the ABC Motsepe League side Polokwane City Rovers FC.
With the transfer window having closed on Thursday, there are still a lot of footballers in the dark about their future as they remain club-less.
“I stayed without playing in the PSL, but I still believe I can offer something at that level,” Segolela said.
The footballer, who comes from Moletjie near Polokwane, last tasted premier league football when he was with Polokwane City in 2017.
Last year, in a bid to get his career back on track, he surfaced at NFD side TS Galaxy FC, where he trained under then newly appointed coach Dan Malesela.
Segolela, who also hosts the Tlou Segolela Annual Festive Tournament in his home town, said that, aside from being a player, he is one of the directors at Rovers.
As older players struggle to get into teams, some are feeling the pinch because they don’t belong to a club. This leads to some retiring prematurely rather than on their own terms.
Former Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport winger Mandla Masango has not been with a club since he parted ways with Danish team Randers FC in July.
Former Cape Town City defender Tshepo Gumede has not been signed on with any team since the Citizens decided not to renew his contract at the end of last season.
Another player who has not found a club, since Bidvest Wits let him go two years ago, is Sifiso Myeni.
Having no club means players have to keep fit on their own so that, if an opportunity arises, they can grab it with both hands.
Former Free State Stars goalkeeper Mduduzi Khumalo, who is also searching for a new club, said he hoped to get placed soon.
“My family and everyone around me, who believe I will get another chance at top-flight football, keep me going.”
Khumalo’s contract ended with the 2017/18 season.
He was previously on the books with Orlando Pirates.
The 24-year-old is training with Wits Varsity Football under the leadership of Mark Haskins.
“My passion drives me and I believe in my abilities. I will not betray my faith,” he said.
