Mmegi/The Reporter (Gaborone)

Botswana: GU New Boys - Will They Add Value?

Gaborone — Tumisang 'Butcher' Sekanonyana

Since joining GU, Sekanonyana looks like a completely different defender and credit must go to the Reds' technical team for polishing his game. His experience will be handy when the going gets tough later in the season. He has so far featured in all GU's opening games including the goalless draw against former employers BMC. He has performed with distinction so far.

Gobonyeone 'Shoes' Selefa

He was signed from rivals Mochudi Centre Chiefs. He has settled well in the Reds' line-up. There is no doubt that coach Mike Sithole is a keen admirer of Selefa and it did not come as a surprise when he was signed though he was a bench warmer at Magosi. Against Killer Giants last Wednesday night, he formed an impressive combination with Sekanonyana at the heart of defence. Erratic at times but Shoes is a dedicated defender who can play in different positions.

Vincent 'Khanase' Phiri

An intelligent left-footed midfielder who made a late switch to the Reds after many thought he would sign for Township Rollers. Phiri left former club, Uniao Flamengo Santos under a cloud and he would like to put the controversy behind him to concentrate on his new club. There is no doubt he has talent but he will have to fight for a place in the Reds' midfield where the technical team is spoilt for choice. He reminded many people of his old exploits when he picked Sageby Sandaka with a long cross field pass, which led to the opening goal in the 3-0 routing of Killer Giants. A good signing for the Reds.

Roy 'Yaya' Makayi

It does not take rocket science to know that the former City of Lusaka FC midfielder is a class act. He made his debut against Killer Giants in midweek and added spark to the Reds' midfield. Many would say he was not tested against Killer Giants but that is beside the point. Surely coach Sithole is happy to have a hard-worker like Makayi.

The Zambian is going to set the scene on fire - that is if he does not lose focus along the way.

Botlhe 'Ringo' Rankgomo

There is no doubt that Rankgomo is a goal poacher who will ease the pressure from the likes of Sandaka and Ronald Chikomo.

He is what GU needed upfront in their bid to win the title back to back. He brings a lot of experience having played for Flamengo Santos and Naughty Boys. The only problem with Rankgomo is his off the field antics. Such things have destroyed the careers of many promising players. He has to understand that he is now at a big club, hence he is a role model to others.

Nsuka Panzu

Signed from FC Lupopo in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), he is described as one of the best foreign forwards to come to Botswana in recent times.

He will definitely face stiff competition from already established GU forwards like Sandaka, Chikomo, Maposa brothers Stephen and Wellington and Tiroyamodimo Mohambi. All eyes will be on Panzu this season though he is yet to make his debut for GU.

Kaelo 'Chisiwa' Kgwaswane

An intelligent left-winger who joins the GU stable from lower division side Masione FC in Manyana.

Those who have seen him believe that under the guidance of Sithole, the youngster will come of age. Sithole is a keen admirer of young talent and it would not be surprising if he sends him into the deep end soon.

Mandla 'Spikiri' Mgadla

Another player who was linked to Township Rollers during the transfer window and ended up at GU. He is a disciplined youngster who will add value to the Reds especially on the wing. He proved his potential at relegated Mogoditshane Fighters when he gave opponents a torrid time. It is now time for him to show that he can perform at a big club.

Mamikina Mayunga

Another player signed by the champions from DRC and with places limited in the GU midfield, he will have to be outstanding to get a run.

He made his debut against BMC in Lobatse but he was far from impressive. Only time will tell if the former AS Vita midfielder is a good buy.


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