Free State Stars coach Giovanni Solinas says he is excited at having been giving the opportunity to take charge of Ea Lla Koto for the second time.

The 48-year-old took over from Ernst Middendorp in December last season and helped Stars to a 12th-place finish in the Absa Premiership but he resigned at the end of the season due to personal issues.

Meanwhile, French coach Denis Lavagne took over the reins at the club following Solinas’ departure.

However, Solinas has returned to the club for his second spell as head coach and he says he is looking forward to the opportunity to repay the club for showing faith in him.

‘I am excited to be back with the club. I am happy with the opportunity given by the club management to lead the team again. It shows that they have faith in me and we will try and do our best to do well this season,’ Solinas told the Free State Stars website.

‘It was a very emotional to leave them at the end of last season. The team is currently not in the satisfactory position and our objective is clear and that is to get away from the danger zone as soon as possible.

‘The players are showing hunger and dedication to move away from the current log standing. They are responding very well to what is required of them. The only thing is to get that fighting spirit and a right frame of mind for the season ahead.’

When the Absa Premiership returns, Free State Stars will take on Maritzburg United on October 15.

The match at James Motlatsi Stadium kicks off at 15:30.