Eric Tinkler, the former coach of Orlando Pirates midfielder Sipho Mbule, has offered a frank assessment on the midfield maestro, saying he is still short of what he’s truly capable of.
Tinkler worked with the then very young Mbule at SuperSport United before a reunion at Sekhukhune United last season.
When asked about Mbule’s performance in Orlando Pirates’ recent MTN8 quarterfinal win over Polokwane City, Tinkler praised his natural technical ability but questioned his overall influence on games.
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Mbule became a Buccaneer after the Bethlehem-born star was released by Mamelodi Sundowns over reported ill-discipline.
The 26-year-old was loaned out to Sekhukhune United in the latter half of last season, where Tinkler had a chance to work with him again. While his talent remains undeniable, concerns about his work rate and consistency continue to follow him.
“Sipho is a talent,” Tinkler told the media at the Betway Premiership launch.
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“I watched the game (Pirates against Polokwane City on Saturday in the MTN8 quarterfinals), I will be honest. He does a few little technical things that made it all happen.
“But the contribution overall is what you got to ask. And can he be contributing more than what he does? Yes. I don’t think he is contributing half of what his potential is.
“I’m being harsh, but he is not my player anymore,” concluded Tinkler.
Meanwhile, Tinkler’s Sekhukhune will be in Soweto to face Orlando Pirates on Saturday at 17:30 at the Orlando Stadium.
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