A 1995 CAF Champions League winner is of the firm view that the announcement of coach Jose Riveiro's impending departure at Orlando Pirates, though well intended, has dampened the spirit at the club.
Riveiro will be exiting the gates at 53 Central Street, Houghton, Johannesburg come end of June when his three-year contract runs at.
His successor remains a subject of speculation.
"It's been three to four matches without a win for Pirates right now. The timing of the announcement about the coach's departure does affect the players because, as we all know, nobody likes changes," Bruce Ramokadi points out.
"Some players are aware they are favourites of coach Riveiro, so now they have to worry about whether the next Pirates coach will feel the same way about them.
"This uncertainty plays a huge role in football, as you don't know what the future holds, and it can demoralise the team's spirit," he adds.
Bucc lost 1-0 to Sekhukhune United in a Betway Premiership match, a result the erstwhile striker believes has ended any chance the side had of winning the league this season.
"The loss to Pyramids in Egypt is still on the minds of the Pirates players. Against Sekhukhune, the coach should have played those who are hungrier for game-time.
READ: Historic league title beckons for SA-born coach
"He should have rotated the team, especially with the Soweto Derby coming up on Saturday. He should have allowed his regular players some time to rest, particularly after the recent travels in the CAF Champions League.
"Fatigue is taking its toll.
"I understand the coach has a certain group of players he fully trusts, but the truth is, fatigue is beginning to impact his trusted players," says Ramokadi.
Pirates will now have to lick their wounds and prepare for a league battle against old foes Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday (15:00).
