Komphela 'free' to join Chiefs

Johannesburg - Free State Stars team manager Rantsi Mokoena says the club will not stand in the way of Steve Komphela's ambitions following reports linking the coach with Kaizer Chiefs.

Komphela has done wonders since taking over at Ea Lla Koto and has led the side to sixth in the PSL standings this season, just seven points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

Reports have surfaced recently suggesting Amakhosi are preparing to toss out current coach Vladimir Vermezovic in favour of Komphela, and Mokoena admits Stars will not stop the tactician from leaving the club.

"We have no problem in letting Steve Komphela join a team of his choice," Mokoena told The New Age. "He has a contract with us but we are not going to stand in his way."

However, Mokoena revealed no official contact had been made by Chiefs, and also went on to claim the success of the team this term is not down solely to Komphela, stating there are other contributing factors housed within the walls of the club.

He added: "We are yet to be informed, officially, about (interest from Chiefs), but the important thing to note is that even though we value (Komphela's) contribution to the team, he was not the only coach who ensured success, as people like assistant coach Themba Sithole have played a major role in ensuring that we have a formidable side."