The news that Michael Morton has signed a pre-contract with SuperSport United came as a hammer blow.

Morton may be largely under-rated by some, but Matsatsantsa saw what he brought to the Team of Choice and failing to tie him down on a contract could cost us.

In this season alone, Morton has started in all but two of our league games. Maritzburg certainly haven't set the world alight in terms of goals, with just 12 so far from 15 games - so our defence continues to play a vital role - and the defensive midfield role has been very important for us with Morton a consistent performer.

He has already said that he will give his best for the remainder of the season, but the news of him leaving will be a blow to his teammates.

But if we survive the drop, do we have cover to come in and replace him or who should we target?