Eric Tinkler signals ruthless clearout at Sekhukhune United

Tinkler is aiming for a more manageable squad heading into the 2025/26 season, suggesting the current group is simply too large.

With Sekhukhune United targeting silverware, he wants to ensure deserving players get consistent game time — something he believes will only be possible once roles within the squad are clearly defined.

"I think we're working on it so it's a work in process, we've brought in 14 new faces and I think we've strengthened the squad, we have a little bit more depth in the squad," said Tinkler.

"We're still looking to cut a few because I think the squad is too big, it needs to be cut, but I think the fact that we did well against TS Galaxy, it gives us the opportunity now, leading into the massive Pirates game [on Saturday] to gauge where we are collectively as a squad."

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One of Tinkler’s new faces is veteran striker Bradley Grobler, who is closing in on the all-time PSL top scorer record of 129 goals, which is held by Siyabonga Nomvethe.

Tinkler believes the 37-year-old still has what it takes, with his tally now on 117 goals.

"I don't think he needs motivation, Bradley is self-motivated. He's a good professional, he's just had – obviously, over the past couple of seasons – a lot of injuries, and now it's about how I manage him," he added,

"I think so far it's actually been good, I think it's the first time he's actually got through a pre-season in more than four seasons, so it means we're managing him in the right way. But he's a natural goal scorer – and put him in front of goal and he'll score goals."