Baroka FC midfielder Lantshene Phalane has opened up on why he ended up at the club despite interest from two Betway Premiership clubs.
The 34-year-old has signed a season-long deal with the Motsepe Foundation Championship side – Baroka, a club where he began his career in 2006.
Phalane has spent over 13 years in the professional setup at clubs such as Platinum Stars, Milano United, Bloemfontein Celtic, Royal AM and Moroka Swallows.
In an interview with FARPost, the midfielder revealed to this publication that there was a potential move to SA elite teams such as Marumo Gallants and Magesi FC, but nothing materialised.
“There were offers while I was training alone. There was interest, but as you can see, the league has changed. So, while things never materialised. I asked the chairman [Khurishi Mphahlele] if I could assist, and he welcomed me with open arms,” said Phalane.
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“So while I was waiting for Marumo Gallants and Magesi [to make a formal approach], I was training alone. But while waiting I knew there was always a place that I could go and help,” he added.
Phalane acknowledged that he was not surprised that he ended up at the club where everything started 13 years ago.
“My journey with Baroka started in the 2006/07 season when the club was still called Giant Killers. When Baroka were officially formed in 2007 I was there. So I come far with the club. In football, as you know, where you normally start is where you normally end your career.
“I also saw it as an opportunity to also come home, you see, and help where I can. You all saw they were in the [PSL Promotional/Relegation] playoffs [last season], so we must also show the experience that we received in the PSL. Maybe we will be lucky this season.”
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