Butler impressed by GU’s Phiri

Zebras coach has declared his admiration for Gaborone United’s teenage sensation Karabo Phiri. The youngster scored his first league goal of the season during the 2-0 win over Extension Gunners a fortnight ago.

 
Phiri is a product of GU’s development side. He has been at the club since the days he played for the Under 12 team and has represented all age groups in the club’s youth system. GU’s officials informed this reporter that Butler has hailed the youngster as one of the best left footed players in the country.

 
The Englishman has continuously worked with the national under 20 team and other youth teams since his arrival. His close association with the youngsters has allowed him to get a first hand scouting experience of Phiri’s talents; the GU midfielder is an under 20 national team player.

 
Butler showed his belief in young players by fielding teenage players such as Keorapetse Seloiso during a FIFA recognized international match against South Sudan last month and  is reportedly contemplating inviting the youngster for the next national team camp.

 
Phiri made his debut in the first team last season under the tutelage of Major David Bright. He showed glimpses of brilliance and earned rave reviews last season but he was given limited chances in the first team.

 
This season he struggled to get first team action under Bright, however, the change in the team’s technical team has given Phiri a new lease of life in terms of regular football. The club’s technical pair, coach George Mogopodi and technical director Rahman Gumbo, are said to have faith in younger players.

 
Their frequent use of young players such as Gosegonna Molapisi and Obonwe Maome has encouraged the club’s youngsters in recent weeks. Mogopodi and Gumbo believe that Phiri is one of the club’s brightest prospects.

 
Butler displayed his admiration for the player on April 12 on his Twitter page, saying, “On the way back from Lobatse, lovely game on and off the field. GU worthy winners. Good to see Phiri score, gonna be (he’s going to be) a good player, only 19.”