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Ernst: I'm not leaving SA

Cape Town - Former Chippa United coach Ernst Middendorp is expecting to be without a club at the start of the 2015/16 PSL season.

The German tactician is still in Port Elizabeth where his legal representatives are engaged in an ongoing battle with Chippa United following his suspension as head coach of the club in March this year. Middendorp’s contract at the club was due to run until June 2016.

Middendorp did not want to comment on the current state of affairs with the Chilli Boys but did confirm that there had been no interest shown in him by former employers Maritzburg United despite media reports this week suggesting otherwise.

"I don’t know where to go or what to do. In the moment I just know that at this stage it looks like I will not be in the race preparing a team at the beginning of the season," Middendorp told Sport24 on Tuesday.

"There is no discussion. Honestly, no discussion between Maritzburg United and me."

The 56-year-old may be without a club, but he seems to be developing a strong relationship with PE.

"Since I was with Maritzburg and we were planning a possible move to PE I was always interested (in the town). I had good knowledge of the facilities and the world class stadium and it fascinated me," said Middendorp.

"That was the main reason that I made the decision. I was fascinated by Port Elizabeth and I’m still fascinated by Port Elizabeth. It’s a fantastic town, it’s a fantastic environment to enjoy."

Regardless of what happens, the former Kaizer Chiefs, Bloemfontein Celtic and Golden Arrows mentor sees his future in the country.

"I stay in South Africa. I am a South African resident - for more than 10 years I have been connected here and there is no reason for me to leave. I have properties here. That is not to say that I will not go somewhere, but for now my main focus is on South Africa," he said.

"I will be watching the preparations closely. I know that it is very important to have the knowledge. I have spent a lot of time watching some local games around Port Elizabeth and it is very interesting to see – there is a lot of talent."

The new PSL season begins on August 8.

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