TEHRAN – South African international midfielder Ayanda Patosi has played down speculation that he is about to leave Esteghlal after dressing room bust-up.

Esteghlal lost to Iran Professional League leaders Persepolis 1-0 on Saturday which left them in fourth place.

The Iranian media reports suggest that the 26-year-old player had a bust-up with Farshid Bagheri and Farshid Esmaeili in the dressing room.

Esmaeili missed a penalty in the late minutes of the first half, while Patosi is the first-choice penalty taker.

The local media reported that Patosi has asked his agent to terminate his contract with Esteghlal at the end of the season, but the Bafana Bafana playmaker has said he will stay with Esteghlal.

“Don’t fall for the trap of our enemies. My stay with Esteghlal FC has been so amazing and I’m loving it here. Receiving so much love from the Esteghlal family has made my stay so much better. I’m happy I was welcomed into this beautiful family,” Patosi posted on his Instagram account.