David Martindale, Livingston FC’s first-team manager has revealed that Aphelele Teto was loaned to Chippa United after his registration was declined by the Scottish Football Association.
Teto, 21, joined Livingston from DStv Premiership outfit TS Galaxy in August 2023 on a four-year contract but failed to receive a work permit.
Martindale has since taken to the club’s official website to wish Teto well on his loan back in his native South Africa but in the same breath expressed disappointment that despite the club’s full representation for the player, his registration has for the second time being rejected by the Governing Body Endorsement.
“As a club, we were left with no option other than trying to find Teto a club for the season coming,” he said.
“With his GBE (Governing Body Endorsement) being refused by the SFA again, I find the process itself incredibly disappointing. As a club, we have had the player training with us for a full season and know what Aphelele could bring to the team. With relegation to the Championship, we felt that significant change in circumstance would help in our argument to convince the GBE panel that Teto would play for us.
“With no right of appeal on the decision, it was imperative as a club we secured our asset but got the player out playing football which is essential for him at this stage.
“We wish Teto all the best at Chippa United.”
The diminutive former South African U23 international will be looking to put all his misfortunes behind and focus on getting regular game-time under his belt at the Gqeberha-based outfit for the upcoming campaign.
