With the January transfer now wide open, Orlando Pirates have been warned against exuberant transfer business at this time of the season by a club legend.
The January transfer window is opened as per custom, and allows for teams to register new players. Most teams usually use this as an ample opportunity to strengthen their squads.
Lamontville Golden Arrows, AmaZulu and Mamelodi Sundowns have already kicked off their January window transfer business signings of Kagiso Malinga, Sifiso Ngobeni Zuko Mdunyelwa.
READ | Negotiating Behind The Scenes: Screamer orchestrated my move to Pirates
However, Pirates legend Shakes Gwabeni, believes the Buccaneers are already stacked with quality that deserves some game-time and has advised against purchases for Pirates.
"I think the team made really signings over the main transfer window," Gwabeni told KickOff.
"Many of them have received much game-time and a chance to prove themselves so I think maybe give them let them settle in.
Pirates signed four players ahead of the new season in Sephelo Baloni (Cape Town All Stars), Patrick Maswanganyi (SuperSport United) Katlego Otladisa (Marumo Gallants) and Melusi Buthelezi (TS Galaxy).
These were further backed up by the arrivals of Lesedi Kapinga and Karim Kimvidi. Meanwhile, Azola Matrose, Zakhele Lepasa and Thabiso Sesane returned from their respective loan spells.
The likes of Kimvudi and Maswanganyi have grown to be regulars for head coach Jose Riveiro, making a combined 37 appearances. Even Buthelezi enjoyed a good runoff action following an injury to Sipho Chaine.
However, injury has robbed the likes of Kapinga and Matrose of game-time, with Kapinga making just four appearances while Matrose is yet to don the Pirates jersey in a competitive match.
Sesane's situation is arguably worse, having not featured in a single match despite being fit for action. A reported loan to Chippa United are believed to have fallen through and the youngster continues to wait for an opportunity in the senior team.
"Those are the type of players I'm speaking about. Who we haven't really seen. To add more players that, I think would not be a good move and might cause further frustrations," added Gwabeni.
ALSO READ | Mofokeng breaks silence on Wolves assessment
Meanwhile, Pirates are expected to part ways with several of their players with Cameroonian strikers Eva Nga and Souaibou Marou both believed to be headed from the exit door after growing bewildered by a lack of playing time.
Riveiro has opted for Evidence Makgopa and Zakhele Lepasa as his main striker for the season.
Pirates return to competitive action when they host Chippa United on 13 February at Orlando Stadium in a DStv Premiership fixture.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!