Baxter distances himself from SuperSport's decision not to release Mokoena for Fifa U20 World Cup

SuperSport United and the South African Football Association (Safa) are currently embroiled in a battle over midfielder Teboho Mokoena.

Matsatsantsa confirmed that they will not release the youngster to join Thabo Senong’s Amajita for the upcoming Fifa under-20 World Cup.

News of the club’s refusal was not taken lightly by Safa and the association has subsequently put Stuart Baxter in a predicament.

However, the 63-year-old has distanced himself from his employer’s decision not to release Mokoena.

“I didn't say we weren't going to release players because I'm not the one who makes that decision‚" Baxter told reporters. 

"You're asking the wrong person. I don't like the club vs country scenario. I want it to be a club and country situation. I'm sure the club would love to help but then there's the question of what are the rules and what is the situation here and there,” he explained.

"That I can't give you,” Baxter added.

SuperSport are by no means the only South African club playing hardball over the services of their star player, and Baxter believes that in order for South Africa to be successful on the world stage co-operation from all the stakeholders involved is essential.

“You'd love to have players taking part in World Cups, but you also don't want to sacrifice a long‚ hard season,” Baxter said.

"You have to look at the rules‚ have good dialogue and reach some consensus because the most important thing we need in South Africa is co-operation across all levels. If we can have everyone pulling in the same direction‚ South Africa could be a powerhouse in football. That's an issue we need to solve,” Baxter concluded.