Chippa United have given an explanation as to why head coach Gavin Hunt has been suspended, pending an investigation, while also confirming a player as his interim replacement.
News broke out in the media on Monday morning that the former Kaizer Chiefs boss has been suspended following a run of poor results since he took charge of the Chilli Boys at the start of the season – and they proceeded to name Kurt Lentjies as caretaker coach.
Chippa, who are third from bottom of the DStv Premiership standings, have only won once in their opening 10 league games of the season.
Lentjies is a strange decision, but that is who is expected to be on the bench when the Chilli Boys face Baroka FC this weekend, while it has been reported by the mainstream media that Vladislav Heric is also being considered as a replacement for Hunt.
The full statement from the club:
Following the club having endured its worst start to the League of 10 /ten) matches and only 1 (one) victory, the club has placed Head Coach Gavin Hunt on a precautionary suspension, whilst it investigates the matter according to its Internal processes.
In the absence of the Head Coach Kurt Lentjies will take up a caretaker position and shall be assisted by Siyabulela Gwambi. Lentjies has been a stalwart for the club and following his retirement from playing ensured that he attained his coaching qualifications. His intricate knowledge of the team, players and culture of the club should ensure that the club will be in good stead during this period.
We trust that these measures will be the beginning of a turnaround to the season and bring hope again to the stakeholders and fans of the Pride of the Eastern Cape.