Moroka Swallows head coach Steve Komphela has explained why the Dube Birds brought in former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Andile Jali.
The 33-year-old became the first player signed under the new ‘Moroka Swallows’ name, as the Soweto giants look to reach former heights in 2023/24.
Jali is one of six new signings ahead of the new season so far, with Komphela explaining the former PSL Midfielder of the Season ticked all the boxes.
“It’s always difficult to bring any player to a team because it’s not only about them wishing to come to you, it’s about affordability and whether there is a need for such a player in your team,” he said during SuperSport’s DStv Premiership launch on Wednesday.
“But Andile Jali comes in and he ticks all those boxes – do we need a player of his caliber? Yes. Would he have the influence? Yes. Would he have the impact? Yes. Would he improve us? Yes. Would he evolve anyone? Yes.
“So it is our responsibility to see that that transaction is smooth without upsetting any processes within Moroka Swallows.”
Komphela was then asked whether Jali is excited to reunite with him at the club, with the duo having previously worked together at Bafana Bafana and Masandawana.
“[He is ] more than excited,” he explained.
“It’s strange, athletes don’t care as long as they play. Jali had been out for some time, there had been lots of rumours and offers and all that.
“A bit of a plus that I worked with Andile at national team, I worked with him at Sundowns…”
