Former Chiefs and Sundowns winger George Lebese given a lifeline in the USA

20 December 2019 - 09:24 By Mahlatse Mphahlele
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Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune and George Lebese of Sundowns during the Shell Helix Ultra Cup match between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium on July 21, 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune and George Lebese of Sundowns during the Shell Helix Ultra Cup match between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium on July 21, 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Image: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

Former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder George Lebese has been given an opportunity to revive his career with American USL Championship side Colorado Springs Switchbacks.

Lebese‚ who was released by Sundowns in September‚ has joined the Springs Switchbacks‚ who are bottom of the Western Conference in the second-tier of American football.

In statement‚ Springs Switchbacks said the move is subject to USL Championship and USSF approval.

“It's a great honour and blessing to be given this opportunity to join the Switchbacks family‚” said the 30-year-old Lebese.

“I can’t extend my sincere gratitude [enough] and above all‚ I just want to thank God for everything.”

Switchbacks head coach Alan Koch said: “George is a player who we are incredibly excited about. He is in need of a fresh opportunity after many years of success in the South African Premier League.

“We look forward to supporting him and helping get his confidence back.

“When George is flowing‚ the team is flowing. He is going to be an integral part of our new-look team and he has the ability to unlock the opposition's defence through his vision and passing ability.”

Lebese had struggled fro game time after a high-profile move from Chiefs to Sundowns in August 2017‚ and was released from his contract by the Brazilians ahead of the current 2019-20 Premier Soccer League season.

His struggles to find another club in South Africa had been well documented.

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