Sithole: Japhta moved too soon

Cape Town - Free State Stars academy coach Themba Sithole feels Sello Japhta's move to Orlando Pirates was premature as he has yet to establish himself in the Premiership.

Japhta and fellow Stars team-mate Ayanda Nkosi have recently been signed by Bucs, who have been busy in the transfer market ahead of the new season.

Having made his league debut last season, the 22-year-old left winger went on to make his mark at Ea Lla Koto and attracted interest from Gauteng's big three.

"There is no doubt about Japhta's talent and commitment as a most promising winger, but I think he is still not yet ready to play at the big team like Pirates," said former Stars defender and assistant coach Sithole.

"Last season was his debut season in the PSL and he has shown a great potential, so I think it would be wise of him to stay for another season to settle in enough in the PSL before considering a big move to Gauteng teams.

"Look, he only made his PSL debut in mid-season, making 18 starts, and was gradually consolidating his place in the team's starting XI, and was on his way to establish himself as a professional player in the PSL level.

"Yes, joining a big team like Pirates will make him grow as a professional player, but his dream move is little bit premature at this stage.

Japhta, a product of the Bethlehem club's development ranks, got promoted to the first team and made his top-flight debut in the 3-1 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in November.

He went on to make 18 starts, five substitutes' appearances and scored three goals. The winger's performances didn't go unnoticed by the Gauteng teams, as he was eventually snatched up by Buccaneers.

Japhta will be fighting for a starting berth with Amigo Memela and Thabo Qalinge at Pirates.