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Cape Town - Bidvest Wits coach Gavin Hunt has spoken for the first time about the departure of Sibusiso Vilakazi, admitting it was tough to lose his best player.
Mamelodi Sundowns have been gunning for Vilakazi for almost three seasons and they finally got him this winter, also exchanging Cuthbeth Malajila and Mogakolodi Ngele with the Students in the process.
However, Hunt has conceded that in his experience in football, which dates back over 30 years, it was never easy dealing with such a loss.
"It was very, very difficult because you don't want to let go of any good player," Hunt told reporters.
"But I mean it has been going on for how long now, two years, three years.
"It has been disappointing for me because he has been tapped all the time. I think it affected me and everyone, but I don't have grudges with anyone.
"It certainly affected him and he wasn't the same. He has the chance now to earn a lot of money and good luck to him.
"He will be set for life.
"I spoke to him about it...he's 25, 26 and he's at the right age and I didn't want to lose him but it's good for him, for us. The timing was right even though I didn't want him to go because I like him."
Hunt's side will open the new Premiership season at home against Kaizer Chiefs next Tuesday.
