Bloemfontein Celtic have spoken out about the age cheating controversy surrounding their new signing, Hellings ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango.
The Malawian striker signed for Siwelele during the transfer window, but is yet to be registered as a squad member for the season since his former club, Big Bullets FC, are refusing to issue his international transfer certificate because there is a confusion around his age, with the Malawian media having reported extensively on it.
Malawi’s Football Association and Fifa have indicated that he was born in 1996, meaning that he would have to wait until he turns 18 in order for his previous club to issue his international transfer certificate and therefore cannot be registered with the PSL.
However, his father, Society, has come out and said that the player is about to turn 21, on September 27.
Back in 2008, Mhango was barred from participating in an U14 tournament because he was reportedly overage. The Malawi Schools Sports Association general secretary was quoted as saying, “He came to the finals with Embangweni Primary School, but he failed to pass the age test as he was 17 years old then."
The Siya crew contacted Celtic’s technical director Mich D’Avray, who said, "We've signed him and we're just waiting for his work permit. All I know is that he's 20 years old and his passport says he's 20 years old.
“I don't know... what more can I say? We've got his clearance, but I just don't know how long it will take to get his work permit."
By: Lunga Adam
Follow Lunga on Twitter: @Lunga110
