Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Kagisho Dikgacoi has backed the return of Bloemfontein Celtic, following reports of Siwelele's imminent comeback.
KickOff previously reported how Marumo Gallants, who returned to the Betway Premiership after purchasing the status of Moroka Swallows, are undergoing managerial and ownership changes.
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As per this website's exclusive report, the club showed their hand in plans to rename back to Celtic, after they unveiled their new kit in green and gold colours and have revealed a new nickname ahead of the new season, 'Siwelele Sa Marumo'.
This comes after management, which allegedly includes former Siwelele owners, in a consortium, were lobbied by the Celtic NEC of the club's supporters to rename the club, instead of just relocating.
Dikgacoi, who hails from the Free State, has echoed the sentiments of many in the province for the return of the beloved Celtic.
"You'll be shocked by the number of spectators attending the league games in ABC Motsepe [League], Hollywoodbets [Super]... I'm talking lower leagues. You'll think you're watching [an] NFD or PSL team, it simply shows people are hungry for football," Dikgacoi said on Radio 2000.
"We're a football-loving city or province in Free State. Take, for instance, [the] Bafana game against Zimbabwe.
"I'm also happy Marumo decided to take their games here in Bloemfontein. My wish is one day for the city to have Bloemfontein Celtic back, because people are dying to see football in the city," he added.
Indications from sources are that Gallants are in the process of changing their name to Celtic, with the only stumbling block being that they have not yet reached an agreement with the owner of the trademark name, Max Tshabalala.
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According to sources privy to the dealings, Tshabalala has significantly upped the asking price for the Celtic name, which he previously reportedly valued at R5 million.
However, there are several new name options currently being considered that would reflect the old Bloemfontein Celtic, should they not acquire the naming rights owned by Tshabalala.