Roderick Mutuma’s decision to leave Highlanders didn't come as only a shock to fans, but to coach Erol Akbay as well. The lanky forward left Bossso by mutual consent to Join Yadah Stars fc with four months left on his one year deal.

Akbay who is currently in his native Netherlands for the mid-season break, said while he was naturally saddened by the departure of Mutuma, he sympathised with him as he was clearly not settled due to money issues.

Mutuma was reportedly getting a $500 monthly salary which the striker said was not enough to cater for his family in Harare while he was in Bulawayo. At the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries run club Mutuma is understood to have been offered $4 000 signing on fees and promised a $1 000 per month salary.

 “I feel bad because he was a good player with good character. I am however happy that he has finally reunited with his wife because it was a difficult time for him here in Bulawayo while his wife was in Harare,” said Akbay.

He said although he could clearly see that the player was a troubled soul, which might have also affected his performance, he had hoped he could soldier on up to the end of the year.

“My honest hope was that he stayed with us up to the end of the year,” said Akbay, speaking from his native Netherlands.

Akbay returns next Tuesday to prepare for the second half of the Premiership season.