Laffor rules out political theory

Mamelodi Sundowns forward Anthony Laffor has told the BBC he is not interested in a political career - despite his close links with Liberia president George Weah.

Laffor's number 28 jersey, which he wore he wore during Sundown’s run to the 2016 Caf Champions League title, hangs in the presidential office of Liberia, from when the striker handed it over to the country’s then President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf alongside his winning medal.

Laffor regards Sirleaf's successor in office, 1995 World Player Of The Year George Weah, as a "father" - he was a vocal supporter during his election campaign, even attracting a fine from Sundowns when he travelled to Liberia for one of Weah’s official rallies - but does not think he will also follow his career progression.

"People say I will follow in his footsteps, but I am a social guy - I don’t want to mix my life with politics,” he told BBC Sport Africa.

“In 2017, during the league season, I asked Sundowns for permission to join the campaign for George Weah. The rumours were ‘I was going into politics’. But all I wanted to do was give George Weah my full support.

“When I came back, Sundowns fined me but I felt fulfilled because George Weah became president.”

This article was originally published by BBC Sport.