Clinton Larsen appointed Highbury FC coach after Vusumuzi Vilakazi exit

Experienced South African coach Clinton Larsen has returned to the Premier Soccer League dugout after being appointed head coach of Highbury FC.

The Durban-born manager replaces Vusumuzi Vilakazi, who has left the Motsepe Foundation Championship club.

Highbury announced Larsen’s arrival on Instagram, writing: “Welcome to Highbury FC Coach Clinton Larsen. We are excited for the next chapter journey.”

Larsen joins the club after his recent spell with Venda FC. He also remains highly regarded for guiding Magesi FC to a shock Carling Knockout triumph in 2024.

Image: BackpagePix

Larsen tasked with reviving Highbury’s season

The new coach takes charge with Highbury sitting eighth in the league table, seven points behind the leaders.

The club will be hoping for an immediate improvement as it seeks to mount a promotion challenge. Larsen brings considerable experience to that task, having previously coached Lamontville Golden Arrows, Chippa United and Polokwane City, among other teams.

His appointment marks a return to the professional league after his spell at Venda FC and gives Highbury an experienced figure to lead their push up the standings.

Highbury’s rise to the second tier

Highbury FC were originally founded in Durban during the 1990s before relocating to the Eastern Cape in 2012.

The club are now based in Gqeberha and play their home matches at NMU Stadium.

They secured their place in South Africa’s second tier by winning the 2023–24 SAFA Second Division National Playoffs.