Coach eyes leaner, meaner Chippa unit

CHIPPA United head coach Kosta Papic is expected to trim his squad down to 30 players when they return to the Bay on Friday after a series of pre-season friendlies in Johannesburg.

Reports suggest positive vibes emanating from the Gauteng camp where a Chilli Boys squad of about 38 players has been going about its business quietly.

The team have already played warm-up matches against Premier Soccer League side the University of Pretoria, and National First Division (NFD) teams Jomo Cosmos and Mpumalanga Black Aces.

The PSL newcomers are also scheduled to take on Moroka Swallows tomorrow and a possible final match fixture against Orlando Pirates before heading home.

Papic and his assistant coach Roger Skhakhane have been cracking the whip as they strive to improve fitness levels of the players ahead of a potentially gruelling season.

United have been one of the busiest teams in the transfer market after winning promotion, and recently signed Mhlengi Cele from the NFD outfit Thanda Royals Zulu.

Chilli Boys' team manager Wandisile Mbenguzane said the coach has rolled up his sleeves as he builds a competitive side from the glut of quality players at his disposal.

"We need to strengthen our striking force and the goalkeeping department. Our target squad of players will be 30.

"Almost 95% of the players who were in camp in Port Elizabeth have already been signed but the coach will announce his full squad next week and we will also unveil our new kit sponsorship," Mbenguzane said.

He said United were still chasing after the services of Sundowns striker Edward Manqele and that the team's owner Chippa Mpengesi was negotiating the deal.

Mpengesi and Sundowns have a healthy working relationship after United acquired the services of midfielder Thamsanqa Sangweni from the Brazilians after he was deemed surplus to requirements this month.

Speculation is also rife about United seeking the signature of Ghanaian international and Orlando Pirates reserve goalkeeper Fatau Dauda on loan.

Mbenguzane said former Kaizer Chiefs striker Lucky Khune, who is the younger brother of Amakhosi goalkeeper, Itumeleng, and Tuks midfielder Bafana Sibeko surfaced at United's training camp in Johannesburg for trials.

"A decision on the trialists is expected to be made before the team returns to Port Elizabeth later this week. Our aim is to get the players fit and ensure we prepare for a tough season." - Mthetho Ndoni