Orlando Pirates have just signed Andre De Jong from Stellenbosch. This could directly affect the future of several existing stars.
The smart attacker’s arrival could spell trouble for a host of Buccaneers.
Orlando Pirates sign De Jong, but who suffers?
Kabelo Dlamini
How much longer will the 29-year-old accept a bit-part role for the Sea Robbers? Always reliable and effective when called upon from the bench in several midfield roles, Dlamini hardly starts matches. He might think now is the time to make a move to play more football as he reaches his 30s.
Patrick Maswanganyi
Patrick Maswanganyi has been unpredictable with his output at Pirates, sometimes sizzling but often disappointing. The undoubtedly gifted left-footer has featured nine times in the league out of a possible 12, chipping in with three goals and an assist.
Masindi Nemtajela
Since Pirates are stacked in the midfield pivot positions with Sihle Nduli, Makhehlena Makhaula and Thalente Mbatha all on their roster, Masindi Nemtajela’s best chance for minutes might come further up the pitch as a number 10. However, De Jong’s arrival is a spanner in the works for him.
How could Pirates line up with De Jong?
29-year-old New Zealander Andre De Jong arrives at Pirates with a reputation for being a number 10 with a good work ethic and tactical intelligence. If we assume he’s an automatic starter, is this how the Bucs starting XI would look? He’s not the most prolific player, with just two goals and an assist this season in the league for Stellies, but he is reliable, having played in all 14 Betway Premiership matches so far. Is this how the Sea Robbers will line up with him in the side?
Chaine; Lebitso, Seema, Sibisi, Ndaba; Nduli, Mbatha; Appollis, De Jong, Mofokeng; Makgopa