The complex nature of the relationship between Pitso Mosimane and Anthony Laffor was given a rare public airing at the weekend after the Liberian international again proved decisive for Mamelodi Sundowns with another crucial semifinal goal.
Just days after securing an MTN8 final place for the Sundowns with the only goal of their semifinal against Chippa United‚ Laffor was given a surprise starting line-up berth and delivered again for his coach in the African Champions League semifinal against Zesco United at Atteridgeville on Saturday night.
The brilliance of his touch ensured a fifth minute goal as Sundowns made the perfect start to go and beat the Zambians 3-2 on aggregate and take themselves a step closer to being crowned African champions.
It was an inspired decision by Mosimane to play the 31-year-old‚ whose vacillations in form have left the Sundowns coach often frustrated.
"Laffor is a player for the big occasion. I knew he could deliver. He likes playing the big games. Don't give him these small teams to play. He is not interested‚" said Mosimane afterwards
But the public criticism of Laffor obviously does not sit well with the player‚ who was quick with a riposte of his own.
"I read an article where the coach said I could not play 90 minutes. Now I played 90 minutes. I just want to say thanks to him for allowing me to play for 90 minutes because that's something you don't need to talk about. I've been waiting for my chance."
Mosimane had also previously said Laffor was a difficult player to work with‚ an allegation reporters put to the player.
"Since I've been in South Africa he is the first coach to say I'm difficult. I've worked with Gavin [Hunt]‚ Jomo [Sono]‚ none of them said I was difficult. None of these things you need to talk about. I'm just keeping my feet on the ground and staying focused on the job. I'm not here to fight with anyone‚" Laffor said. - TMG Digital/The Times
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