AmaZulu coach Pablo Franco Martin has refused to comment on Siphesihle Maduna absence against Royal AM after he was linked with a move to Moroka Swallows, and also remained coy on the departure of Gabadinho Mhango.
Maduna, who is rumoured have had issues with lack of discipline, is said to be on his way to Moroka Swallows, while Mhango already completed his switch to the Dube Birds.
The 23-year-old was sent off in the game against Sekhukhune United last season, appearing to be swearing at Kamohelo Mokotjo. Maduna was also shown a straight red card in the Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup recently in the 32nd minute against Royal AM in the final of the pre-season tournament.
He was absent from Usuthu’s team that drew 0-0 with the very same Royal AM at Harry Gwala Stadium on Saturday, but Martin couldn’t give much detail on his situation.
“Today, I had 20 players who were part of my plans and unluckily only 19 could be on the bench,” said Martin after the game.
“Because on Friday I was told that one of my players, who was supposed to play in the first 11 was not going to be able to play. From there I only talk about 20 or 19 players who came to this match.”
Maduna, who was promoted in 2017/18 season, has yet to live up to expectations despite the early promise.
He was handed jersey number 10 at the beginning of last season after it was worn by Siyethemba Sithebe, who had left to join Kaizer Chiefs.
He could become the next AmaZulu player to Steve Komphela’s Dube Birds following Dumisani Zuma and Gabadinho Mhango.
The latter had joined Usuthu at the start of last season from Orlando Pirates but was deemed surplus to requirements by Martin, but the former Simba SC coach couldn’t give answers on what happened between him and Mhango.
“The same answers [as I provided about Maduna],” Martin said in short when asked about the striker.
Usuthu host SuperSport United in their next league match at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Wednesday (17:30).
