Mpheni Defenders star midfielder Mpho Miya.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Mpho Miya, the star midfielder for the Mpheni Defenders, has gone absent without leave (AWOL) once again. The player, who hails from the Free State Province, did not return to the club in January, causing him to miss important Nedbank Cup matches against Hungry Lion and Sundowns.
This is not the first time Miya has gone missing; he did the same last preseason, failing to report to the club amid rumors of a transfer request.
Although that situation was eventually resolved and he rejoined the team, it appears that this time, Miya may not return at all. He feels he has fulfilled his commitments to the club and is now ready to move on to another team.
The club’s owner, Sydwell Phuravhathu, stated that he is willing to let Miya go, provided the player repays the money he owes the club. “We paid their December salaries even though they did not work the entire month. We informed them that if they did not return for duty in January, they would need to repay the money. Miya did not return, so he must pay back that amount,” said Phuravhathu.
Miya has agreed to this arrangement, confirming that he will repay the money in order to receive his clearance. “I will repay the money. I need my clearance to join other teams. I already have offers, some from as far as Namibia,” he said. The talented midfielder was an important player for the ABC Motsepe League defending champions, partnering with key players such as Sandile Nyundu, Gift Nemuthandani, and Rodney Hlongwani He provided assists and scored vital goals for the club in both league and cup games during his era with the Elim-based club. However, this season, he has not been at his best, especially in front of goal, where he has missed chances he usually converts.