Staff Reporter.
Relegation-threatened Marumo Gallants announced on Monday that they have put head coach Dan Malesela, on a period of “special leave” amid poor results.
Malesela returned to Gallants as a replacement for Romain Folz after initially leaving the club for Royal AM in the off-season.
In his 18 games in charge since, he’s won just two games from 10 matches with the club languishing in 16th – five points from safety.
According to the club’s chairperson Abram Sello, now is the right time for a change to re-energise the squad as they prepare for a fight to survive in the league.
“I believe that Malesela and his team have done their best, however, the results show that it’s time to reflect and come up with different tactics,” Sello said in a club statement.
“Losing games takes its toll mentally, physically and emotionally. Therefore, this opportunity will allow for the technical team to re-energise and come back with improved strategies.
“Unfortunately, we don’t have the luxury of pausing football games during this period, and therefore we have an interim technical team taking the reins for now.
“I trust my players and I know that they will continue to strive for wins and make myself and the supporters proud,” he concluded.
Gallants’ new look staff will have time to adjust their squad this week as they host Sekhukhune United on Saturday evening.