Orlando Pirates are counting days before the restart against Sekhukhune United in the Betway Premiership.
A new face will be introduced in the Buccaneers’ attack. The name is Andre de Jong from Stellenbosch FC.
ANDRE DE JONG JERSEY NUMBER SPOTTED
De Jong has been spotted wearing the number 14 jersey. It is the same number previously worn by Monnapule Saleng before his high-profile move to Mamelodi Sundowns last week.
It is therefore a number that is synonymous with big moments, big goals and game-changing performances in black and white.
The New Zealand forward arrived from Stellenbosch FC during the January transfer window after months of interest from the Soweto giants.
At 29, De Jong joins Orlando Pirates as an attacking midfielder or striker, offering experience, movement and tactical intelligence rather than headline-grabbing flair.
His numbers at Stellenbosch FC were modest but solid. De Jong registered three goals and one assist in 22 appearances in the first half of the campaign, after contributing eight goals and five assists in 47 matches across all competitions last season.
The Sea Robbers fans can expect De Jong to stand out with link-up play, pressing defenders and creating space for those around him.
PLAYING COMPETITION FOR THE ORLANDO PIRATES ATTACKING MIDFIELD ROLE
At Orlando Pirates, De Jong enters a competitive attacking group that includes Sipho Mbule, Patrick Maswanganyi, Kabelo Dlamini and Relebohile Mofokeng. His tireless running and positional discipline could be key as coach Abdeslam Ouaddou balances flair with control.
Meanwhile, the Sea Robbers currently lead the Betway Premiership after 12 matches, sitting on 28 points from nine wins, one draw and two defeats, with a game in hand. They boast 18 goals scored, just five conceded, and arrive off a six-game winning run.
With MTN8 and Carling Knockout silverware already secured this season, confidence can’t get any higher.
WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THIS SIGNING?
Please share your thoughts in the comments block below.