THOHOYANDOU – The former Bafana Bafana midfielder, Augustine "Mthakhathi" Makalakalane is the new caretaker-coach for the Thohoyandou outfit, Black Leopards Football Club.

According to the MD of Leopards Mr David Thidiela, Makalakalane's appointment came into effect on Monday this week. His appointment comes three days after the dismissal of their Mozambican coach, Mr Arnaldo da Silva Salvado. The former Mozambican national team coach was officially dismissed during the club's management meeting that was held last Thursday evening.

His dismissal was influenced by the team's poor results in their first four league matches. They managed to collect full points in only one fixture. They lost 1-2 to African Wanderers, 1-3 to Moroka Swallows and 1-2 to Lamontville Golden Arrows, before they snatched a 2-0 victory at the expense of Hellenic.

Makalakalane who also played for the Switzerland sides FC Zurich and Lucerne and a number of local clubs, including Jomo Cosmos and Sundowns during his heydays, will be assisted by the former Wits University FC junior coach, Mr Antonio de Vivo.

Leopards boss Mr David Thidiela stated that Makalakalane and his assistant would be giving the technical instructions to the players until such time when they appoint a head coach. His ability to coach will be put to the test when Leopards host African Wanderers in their Coca-cola Cup fixture at the Thohoyandou Stadium next Saturday, October 19.