Djek Teks Off
Seytek Djekshenkulov confirmed his expected departure from Grilled, with only the destination being anticipated wrongly by the media. All signs had pointed to him transferring to the ambitious three-time Kyrgyzstan champions MAHAC, who are battling to get back to the Jogorku Liga after a prolonged dip in their fortunes. However, Djekshenkulov accepted a competing offer from Polish Division Five club Team Falbogi, and will likely be their lynchpin with current star winger Gustaw Olsza seeking a move.
The 26 year-old revealed that the decision was a very tough one, with MAHAC coach Rian Krol appealing for him to mentor current U-20 striker Grigory Makarov, but he was adamant that he had made the right choice on balance. "Team Falbogi are quality, and I would like to stay in a few more countries before I head back home - unless a truly huge side come in."
The S$6.63 million fee settled on was only marginally more than the S$6.6 million that Grilled paid Cassina Savina some six seasons back, but teammate
Zhu Changchun felt that it was a fair deal for what Seytek had brought to the table. "Ninety-one appearances and twenty-three goals is an outstanding return, and there were days when none of the opposition players looked like they wanted to tussle with him."
lu Zunwen agreed. "He was a real mover for his size, and when he's in full flow, it just screams 'Get out of my way!'. There was very little that he couldn't do, and I think we'll be missing him very soon."
While not exactly news, this turn of events was not exactly what the Grilled support wanted to hear, with a stern test against JUtd looming. Head coach
Niculae Stanca however threw them a bone, as he hinted at a possible exciting signing.
"It's not done and dusted just yet, but those who turn up on Sunday won't be disappointed." the Romanian teased. "And good as Djekshenkulov was, he might just make you all forget him in a jiffy!"
