Royal AM have confirmed the arrival of Happy Jele on a free transfer, following the announcement of John Maduka’s return. The experienced defender had previously been linked with a move to the KZN outfit, as well as Swallows FC, but no deals materialized until now.
The 36-year-old had been without a club since leaving Soweto giants Orlando Pirates at the end of last season, and this is the first time in his 16-year career that he is wearing a jersey of a club that is not Pirates. Jele started out with the Buccaneers in 2006 and went on to achieve great things with the Soweto giants, and finished it off as captain of the club.
Royal AM will provide a new challenge for the veteran, as he joins the likes of Thabo Matlaba, Ricardo Nascimento and Elias Pelembe in an effort to help the club finish in the top eight after last season’s impressive third-place showing. As things stand, Royal AM are just three points ahead of Swallows FC, who sit in the end of season relegation/promotion play-off spot. The battle to avoid relegation is tight in the bottom half of the table and Jele will need to use his experience to inspire Thwihli Thwahla.
Royal AM are away to KZN rivals Golden Arrows on Saturday as both sides look to bounce back from a defeat. Jele’s signing is expected to provide a boost for the team as they look to secure a top eight finish.
