Did Oswin Appollis’ market value put Kaizer Chiefs off the scent?
One of the most in-demand players in Mzansi.
Kaizer Chiefs managed relatively shrewd moves for three ready-made stars in January. Did they not see bang for their buck over Oswin Appollis?
Local to local is lekker, but it comes at a premium
In the English Premier League, clubs must often pay over the odds to sign English players. That’s just how the market works. Similarly, top PSL sides are reluctant to sell their best operators to rivals unless they’re handsomely compensated. Oswin Appollis is a rare type of player in South Africa, with a low centre of gravity and the ability to go both ways when confronted by a marker near the touchline. His rare combination of traits makes him a highly coveted footballer.
Stellenbosch sold Iqraam Rayners to Sundowns for an undisclosed fee although his estimated transfer value now stands at R35 million (evidence of the power Sundowns have over the market). Why would Polokwane settle for anything less than that figure, given Appollis’ age and huge potential to improve?
Polokwane see themselves as competitors with Kaizer Chiefs
According to SoccerLaduma, Polokwane City dug their heels in over star winger Oswin Appollis with club chairman Johnny Mogaladi preferring to sell the 23-year-old Bafana man to overseas suitors if at all. Injuries to key duo Tlou Nkwe and Thabang Matuludi strengthened his resolve to keep the player. Polokwane is currently third in the Betway premiership and chasing an unlikely continental finishing place, viewing themselves as legitimate contenders to finish above Kaizer Chiefs. Why sell to a direct rival?
Predicted XI vs Orlando Pirates
Bvuma; Blom, Miguel, Dortley, Cross; Maart, Mthethwa; Vilakazi, Shabalala, Mmodi; Chivaviro.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi must again find a solution to his striker shortage with Glody Lilepo unlikely to get work permit clearance in time and Duba ruled out. Pule Mmodi, scorer of a brace in the 4-0 win over Free Agents, has made a huge case for a place in the XI. Gaston Sirino is an option wide in attack too but fan favourite Mfundo Vilakazi could get the nod. Mduduzi Shabalala will start in the number 10 role.
How much do you think Oswin Appollis is worth in today’s market?
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