Leopards defender Masika banished for two weeks

AFC Leopards Head Coach, Ivan Minnaert has banished Eric Masika from the first team for a fortnight after the former Harambee Stars defender went AWOL for a week.

“He is not suspended but when a player disappears for a week without even saying anything to any club official, then that player should be disciplined. As a team, we cannot allow such behavior among ourselves,” Minnaert told Citizen Digital.

“We have many means of communication; he could have called any club official to explain why he is not showing up in training,” he added.

The Belgian cited unfitness as the main reason behind the two-week suspension from the first team saying the player could not possibly have been training and even so, the side’s chemistry will suffer if he is drafted to the squad.

“They obviously can’t on the same wavelength now,” he emphasised.

Speaking on the issue, Ingwe team manager Joseph Milimo admitted there could be miscommunication between the club and the player.

“Masika sent a text message requesting to be allowed to do his exams but it appears it went to the wrong recipient. He’s stayed away for four days and this is something that has not impressed the coach. I think his mistake is failing to follow up with the club after having received no feedback,” Milimo told.

He explained the disciplinary action had been discussed by the technical bench adding that no further sanctions would be taken against the player.

Leopards are deadlocked at the top of the SportsPesa Premier League on 17 points, trailing leaders Tusker FC and Mathare United on goal difference ahead of their weekend clash with Ushuru.

Masika was studying at the Catholic University of East Africa for a Bachelors degree in commerce and joined the Den from arch rivals Gor Mahia FC.