Free State Stars sign Belgian striker Maxime Cosse

Free State Stars have confirmed the signing of Maxime Cosse on a 12-month contract from third tier Belgian club Patro Eisden Massmechelen.

 “Cosse will sign a 12-month deal but we will probably sign another striker before the close of the January transfer window,” General Manager Rantsi Mokoena told Daily Sun.

The club earlier in the week released former Kaizer Chiefs striker Edward Manqele, who didn’t seem to fit in the plans of Luc Eymael.

Cosse’s signing comes on the back of his recommendation, and it’s the second Belgian forward the club has recruited after signing Andrea Fileccia, who is now at Maritzburg United in the 2014/15 season.

Stars  have also confirmed the return of goalkeeper Thela Ngobeni, who they had on a season-long loan from Mamelodi Sundowns last season.

They will have him on another loan basis, with the option to purchase at the end of the season, and Mokoena is delighted to have him back.

“We’re thrilled to have Ngobeni back. He did a fantastic job last season but he won’t just walk into the side," he said

“He will have to fight for his place, as we have Ivorian Badra Sangare in goal at present. But having Ngobeni back is a huge boost,” Mokoena continued..

Former Orlando Pirates left back Patrick Phungwayo and coach Eymael had a fall-out before their 3-0 thumping by the Team of Choice.

Mokoena confirms they have since buried the hatchet and smoke the peace pipe, with Phungwayo signing a two-year contract extension.

“Disagreements happen all the time in all walks of life and football is no different," he said.

"Patrick and the coach had a falling out but that has been resolved and we are delighted that the defender has agreed to sign an extension to his contract that will keep him at the club for another two years,” Mokoena explained.

Following their weekend loss, Stars are placed fourth on the league standings with 28 points from 18 games, and boast a fearsome attack that’s brought home 19 goals.