Steve Komphela will not be returning to Free State Stars any time soon if club owner Mike Mokoena's comments are anything to go by.

Komphela left 'Ea Lla Koto' for Platinum Stars after guiding the Bethlehem outfit to a fourth-placed finish, along with Themba Sithole.

Mokoena told Sowetan: "I have never talked to Komphela there is no way he could ever be drafted into my team. I do not want him anywhere near my team."

After Komphela's departure Sithole lead the side before Mokoena brought in Brazilian Jose Valihnos, who was in charge for only two matches.

Sithole retained his post as the coach with goalkeeper mentor Milton Nienov assisting him.

Mokoena believes the media reports have affected the technical team.

"I had a meeting with both of them (Sithole and Nienov) and I reassured them that there is no such thing. It is a complete fabrication, which unfortunately has the potential to destabilise this team. They must not use us as the scapegoat when things are not working out," he said.

Komphela also denies the possibility of him returning back to the Free State.

He said: "I think there can only be speculation about my next assignment when I lose my present position. I don't know where all this comes from, but I can only advise those who are unsettled by the talk to relax.

"What little integrity and honour (I have) would never allow me to muscle in on their territory. I love and respect Stars, after all, that is where I got my bread last season."