Paintsil eyes return to Black Stars

Former Ghana international John Paintsil has joined Martizburg United on a two-year deal after his contract with Santos expired and expressed his determination to return to the national team, the Black Stars.

The 30-year-old was a free agent after parting ways with The People's Team following their failure to gain promotion to the Premier Soccer League at the end of last season.

However, while his stint with the Cape Town outfit may not have ended with the success that either party desired, it has convinced the midfielder to stay in South Africa, with Martizburg his next destination.

“I am very happy this has come to pass. I was with Santos last season and things worked well for us although we failed to secure promotion. I must admit that they paved way for me in South Africa and they will forever remain in my heart," “I have a new team now, and it is a privilege for me, I have signed for two years and my contract runs until the end of the 2015/2016 season.

“My aim is to help the team improve on last season’s performance. All was not well for them and that is why they have brought some new players to aid the team. I have been training with them for a few days and I have been given an assurance by the team and it looks good from the start, I am just hoping for the better."

Maritzburg, who finished 11th in the league last season, appear to have beaten a number of clubs to the former West Ham player's signature.

"More clubs in SA wanted to sign me on, but I personally think that I have made the right choice for my career. This is where I think I belong, and I will continue to give my all to this team in the next two years," explained Paintsil.