The footballers' union, FUSA, has revealed who the ongoing dispute between Cape Town Spurs and Asanele Velebayi regarding his latest move will ultimately harm the most.
Velebayi has since signed for Kaizer Chiefs.
READ | OFFICIAL: Lorch leaves Sundowns!
The PSL Dispute Resolution Chamber ruled in favour of the Soweto giants, declaring the player a free agent.
However, Spurs have appealed to SAFA in an attempt to block the transfer, insisting his contract with them remains valid though they are no longer competing at pro level.
"What Spurs are doing is detrimental to Velebayi's career," said Calvin Motloung.
"This situation has already delayed his progress, as he should have been doing his pre-season training with the new club by now. The coach should have had the opportunity to assess him and integrate him into the team’s system.
"Instead, he has to start over, working on his fitness while the coach evaluates how he will fit into the team. This delay is significant for him.
"As a professional player, Velebayi has already received his salary for last month, as he was not attached to any club at that time. Given that he has signed a contract, he is now a Kaizer Chiefs player and is eligible to play whenever the coach decides to include him," he went on.
Motloung says such disputes are harmful to local football, as they hinder the progres of players and puts their careers on hold.
"Clubs are often more concerned with their own interests. Now that Spurs have been relegated, they want to obstruct a player's career.
READ | Nkota: I don't think I'll finish my contract at Al-Ettifaq…
"We all understand that once a team is relegated from the professional ranks to amateur status, the player automatically becomes a free agent. The player should be allowed to join whichever club he wishes.
"This situation is unjust and can negatively impact players’ careers, as it affects them mentally. You cannot justify keeping a player from progressing by citing investments.
"Allow him to go and provide for his family."
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
