Image source: Getty Images
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was preparing to go to the market during the forthcoming
Betway Premiership transfer window for a striker but Sifiso Luthuli has changed his mind.
Luthuli, 24, who is part of the DStv Diski Challenge squad, was given a rare chance during the win in the exhibition match against the Carling All-Stars last weekend and he impressed.
Luthuli’s emergence is timely for Ouaddou because established but out of favour striker Tshegofatso Mabasa looks like he is edging towards the exit door at the club.
With Mabasa seeing little action, Ouaddou has largely used Evidence Makgopa and Yanela Mbuthuma who have support from attackers Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng and Kamogelo Sebelebele.
Luthuli scored one of the goals when the Buccaneers beat All-Stars at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday and his overall general contribution to the team impressed Ouaddou.
“Sometimes you don't need two weeks or one month to see a player," said Ouaddou about the striker.
So confident is Ouaddou that he has made a proclamation that Luthuli is going to surprise a lot of people next year.
"It's unfortunate that he was injured for a long time, but he is definitely a player that is going to surprise a lot of people in the second part of the season. One of my wishes for the second part of the season was a striker but I think we don't need a striker.
"We have one at the club and we will do with him because he is a good player."
Pirates have scored 18 goals in 12 matches so far and they are going to need someone to help Makgopa up front if they are going to finally end up dethroning Mamelodi Sundowns.
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