Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye says Orlando Pirates should have gone for Sipho Mbule instead of Sihle Nduli.
The former TS Galaxy midfielder, Nduli recently left Stellenbosch FC following the expiration of his contract at the end of the season.
The Buccaneers have reportedly acquired his services on a free transfer to replace the outgoing Miguel Timm, who has been linked with the Betway Premiership side AmaZulu FC.
Khanye believes Pirates’ pressure will be too much for Nduli who, seemingly had a bright future with Stellenbosch.
The analyst says Pirates should have, instead, signed Mbule whose contract with Mamelodi Sundowns, is coming to an end.
KHANYE AGAINST PIRATES’S DECISION TO SIGN NDULI
“Sihle Nduli was in the right place at Stellenbosch, he was their best player and I think he was good for them,” Khanye told KickOff.
“At Stellenbosch, there was less pressure and the environment suited him. He could have had a wonderful career there and even captained the team at one point.
“Nduli is a top-notch player, but moving to Pirates, one of the biggest clubs in South Africa, will only invite pressure on him. Personally, I would have preferred to see him progress for two or three more seasons at Stellenbosch. The players he was with there complemented his style of play. Pirates do need a number 6 and a central attacking midfielder.
“For me, Mbule's off-the-pitch behaviour shouldn't be a barrier for clubs wanting to sign good players. Pirates should have engaged with Mbule to address any issues. They could introduce specific protocols and conditions in his contract to manage his behaviour.
“I'm not advocating what Mbule did; in fact, it was unacceptable. However, people love him, and he has disappointed many with his actions. Pirates is a high-profile team that typically does not tolerate such behaviour, but I still believe he would have been a valuable signing for them. If not Mbule, then they should have gone after Neo Maema or Siphelele Mkhulise.
“Nowadays in South Africa, players with good behaviour tend to get more playing time, even if their skills are lacking. It's about being well-behaved, which allows you to play week in and week out, even if you struggle with basic skills.
“Yes, Nduli understands the game, but to play for Pirates, you need character and personality. You need to be like Sipho Mbule, you will not find another player like him in South Africa.”
