Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes he has found the answer to his problems.
Previously, the Moroccan tactician confirmed he’ll be dipping into the transfer market for a striker in January.
However, a recent performance of one of his fringe players has transformed the situation.
Now, Ouaddou has confirmed there’s no need to sign a new striker! Let’s take a look at the details below.
Pirates coach unearths new gem
Orlando Pirates academy graduate Sifiso Luthuli has left a lasting impression on his coach.
The 24-year-old Bucs academy graduate was handed his first start for the club over the weekend.
With most of his side’s key players busy with Bafana Bafana, Ouaddou had to turn to some of his fringe players for the Carling All Stars clash.
And one Luthuli grabbed his opportunity with both hands.
Just five minutes after coming on as a substitute, the talented striker broke the deadlock for his side at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Deon Hotto’s through-ball was latched onto by Luthuli, who deftly lobbed the ball over All Stars goalkeeper Naphtali Mokoena.
Apart from his goal, Luthuli looked sharp throughout the match. Now, the Orlando Pirates coach believes the striker can help his side next year.
Ouaddou finds solution in Luthuli
Following the match, Abdeslam Ouaddou heaped praise on his relatively unknown striker.
“About Luthuli, sometimes you don’t need two weeks or one month to see a good player. Unfortunately he was also injured for a long time. But definitely he is a player who can also surprise many people in the second part of the season,” the Orlando Pirates coach said as quoted by IDiski Times.
“I was with Mr Robert Marawa on his show. He was also asking me what are my wishes for the second half of the season. I said maybe a striker but I think I have to say that we don’t need striker. We have one at the club and we will do with him. He is a good player.”
Luthuli is expected to compete with Yanela Mbuthuma, Evidence Makgopa, Boitumelo Radiopane and Tshegofatso Mabasa.
The talented striker spent some time out at feeder team Pele Pele FC. He also joined Pretoria Callies on loan back in 2022. Now, he’ll be raring to go for the Orlando Pirates first team.