Managing Director, Bheki Shongwe speaking to kaizerchiefs.com on Tuesday morning paid a glowing tribute to Standard Bank following the function in Johannesburg on Monday night where the bank was bidding farewell to 10 year partnership with both Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

“Standard Bank has been a good partner and has made a huge contribution to the development of football in the country and a developer of youth through the sponsorship of the two teams,” said Shongwe.

“The manner in which the relationship ended demonstrated a high level of professionalism from Standard Bank. It is also a clear indication that Standard Bank had valued the relationship with the two Clubs as much as the two teams valued the relationship.”

“On behalf of football, I hope their exit in football sponsorship or any other form of partnership is temporary. I hope they will be back in the near future in support of this great game.”

“I also wish to thank Chief Executive of Standard Bank, Sim Tshabalala who demonstrated high regard for the relationship both in the manner he managed Standard Bank’s exit and taking personal responsibility to be part of the event to end the relationship. As Kaizer Chiefs we would like to wish Standard Bank all the best in their future endeavours,” added Shongwe.