Midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi has addressed criticism from sections of supporters over his playing style as Orlando Pirates prepare for the second half of the season.
The 25-year-old joined Pirates from SuperSport United at the start of the season and has been one of head coach Jose Riveiro's most-relied on figures, accumulating 23 appearances across all competitions.
Although inconsistent, Maswanganyi has also proved vital when needed for the Sea Robbers, contributing four goals and five assists in the same period.
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However, there are section of supporters who have been highly critical of the skilful attacker.
What are your thoughts on the silly dribbling by Patrick Maswanganyi, which I believe cost us the game? Many of us on the stands were livid. Sundowns have the best press in the league, why would you do that against them ??
— Bongani Khoza, Esq (@BonganiKhoza07) September 22, 2023
Patrick Maswanganyi last good performance was against Stellenborsch at Cape Town in the MTN8 semi Final. Either than that, he's been dropping average performances throughout
— Ta shoez (@trevor_mnini) October 24, 2023
Speaking at a community outreach event where Pirates and sponsor Vodacom donated school shoes to learners of AB Xulu Primary School in Soweto, Maswanganyi said he would not be changing his style of play.
"I won't change my style of play because this is how I play, this is how I have played since I was young," the midfielder said.
"If the coach tells me to do something, I will do it, but this is the way I play and this is what I know.
"Being criticised is part of football. As a player you need to know that you don't have to take negative opinions seriously.
"Everybody has his or her own opinion about the game, so for me it's always interesting when they say I have to improve on this and that."
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Pirates currently sit fifth on the DStv Premiership table with seven wins from 16 matches. The Buccaneers boast 25 points, exactly ten less than log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have three matches in hand.
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