Orlando Pirates need to look outside SA for top striker, says former Buccaneer
Orlando Pirates may need to recruit a top striker from outside South Africa to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance, according to former player Edward Motale. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Image: English/Independent Media
Orlando Pirates may have to look beyond the borders of South Africa if they are to find the top striker they need this coming season, according to former Buccaneer Edward Motale.
The 58-year-old, who was on the books of Pirates during the mid-90s, has been encouraged by some of the signings already made but still feels upfront is where a big addition is still needed.
This comes after Pirates have appointed new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou after José Riveiro left his post last season after a successful period with the Soweto Giants.
Pirates will surely be aiming to break the stranglehold of Mamelodi Sundowns as they won their eighth league title in a row last season.
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“We didn’t have the right striker last season. We had [Tshegofatso] Mabasa, but he was on and off form due to a lack of game time, and then we tried midfielders to try and beef up upfront, and it also didn’t work,” Motale told SportsBoom.co.za.
“If they can beef up upfront with the right striker, they will be good to go. The only issue now is that there are no quality strikers in the country, and perhaps the club needs to look elsewhere for a striker. We need a finisher that can score goals week in and week out.”
Pirates have, however, announced some high-profile signings like Sipho Mbule and Oswin Appollis.
“I truly believe that they [Sipho Mbule and Oswin Appollis] will make an impact because, from the clubs they were playing for, they were regulars and doing very well there. I think Mbule has come to the right club now, and I believe we will see the best of him.”
As for Ouaddou, Motale gave the new coach his full backing.
“I think we have a good coach because he played at the highest level and also for his country, so he knows what it takes, and it doesn’t matter where you played football—the same rules apply.”