Zothwane explains Bright Ndlovu absence amid Mamelodi Sundowns speculation

Sekhukhune United interim coach Papi Zothwane says Bright Ndlovu missed Saturday’s goalless draw with TS Galaxy because of illness, while refusing to comment on reports linking the versatile player with a move to CAF Champions League champions Mamelodi Sundowns.

The 26-year-old was not included in Babina Noko’s squad for the match at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, prompting further speculation that he could be in line for a high-profile transfer.

However, Zothwane insisted Ndlovu’s absence was related to his health rather than any possible move away from Sekhukhune United.

“Ndlovu has got the flu; that’s why he’s not part of the team,” Zothwane told journalists after the match.

Asked about the possibility of the player joining Sundowns, Zothwane said he could not provide clarity because Ndlovu remains under contract with Sekhukhune United.

“I can’t comment on that because he’s contracted to the team. As for whether he will be with us for the rest of the season, that’s what I know.”

Ndlovu has established himself as an important member of the Sekhukhune United squad despite operating in two contrasting positions. He can play as a centre-back or lead the attack as a striker, highlighting his value as a utility player.

He scored five goals last season and has added one goal in four appearances during the current campaign.

The uncertainty surrounding his future comes as Mamelodi Sundowns continue to strengthen their squad. The Premiership heavyweights have already demonstrated their spending power during the current transfer window by bringing in Siyanda Ndlovu, Antonio Van Wyk and Deano van Rooyen.

Masandawana are understood to remain keen to complete their star-studded squad before the PSL registration window closes on Monday, 22 September at 23:59.

For now, Zothwane’s public explanation is that Ndlovu was unavailable because of flu. The coach did not confirm whether the player would remain at Sekhukhune United for the rest of the season, but he also stopped short of acknowledging any agreement with Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sekhukhune United were unable to mark Ndlovu’s absence with a victory as they were held to a goalless draw by TS Galaxy at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. The result leaves the focus on the player’s recovery and on whether the transfer speculation develops before the registration deadline.