ALL EYES WERE ON MASWANHISE

ZIMBABWE’S interest in yesterday’s final day of the European winter transfer window was around one man – TAWANDA MASWANHISE.

As expected, there was a lot of speculation, and some drama, including a last-gasp bid from Belgian giants Anderlecht

There were also some chats in South Africa where bloggers associated with Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs pressed the two giants to sign him.

Of course, there is no chance of the Warriors star taking such a step backwards in his career at a time when he appears destined for the big time.

As the clock ticked, Motherwell came out to insist the Scottish Premiership top scorer was not going to sold in this winter transfer window.

The Zimbabwe international has netted 18 goals in all competitions this term, 13 of which have come in Scotland’s top-flight.

With the fourth-placed Fir Park side five points adrift of Celtic and Rangers, manager Jens Berthel Askou has said Well will not let their top players leave this window.

And that view is shared by the club, who remain firm Maswanhise will not be sold before this morning 1am deadline.

After the 23-year-old scored twice in Saturday’s 2- win at Livingston, Askou said:

“I’m not offering him to anyone.”

Speaking to BBC Scotland post-match, the Dane added: “What’s important is we have a plan that he’s here, and we’re going to stick to that plan, because he’s adding value to the team.

“His performances and the team’s performances are adding value to him, which will benefit him when he will move on eventually, and it will benefit the club.

“Until then, we are building a very, very strong team around his qualities, making sure we service him enough, and then it’s up to him to keep doing what he’s doing.

“It’s a discussion when the right club comes in at the right time, and we decide that it’s time for him, which is not now.” – BBC Sport/Sports Reporter