Orlando Pirates defender Bandile Shandu has revealed what helped him to adapt to the new province—at the same time, addressing the tricky question about his limited game-time this season.
Shandu joined the Buccaneers at the beginning of last season from Maritzburg United. His big switch from the People’s Team was punctuated by lots of talks about him. Some quarters questioned his signing, as they felt he was not good enough.
SOLID SEASON
Despite the lingering doubts about his pedigree, Shandu had a solid season. He scored crucial goals last season and was even called up for Bafana Bafana. Little wonder, more was expected from him this year.
He has spoken about his time so far at the Mighty Pirates and how Mandla Ncikazi helped him to adapt.
“I am thrilled to be at Orlando Pirates; I’m growing and grateful as a player. My dreams are in line with the team,” Shandu told the media in Durban.
“I worked with coach Mandla Ncikazi before; he and coach Fadlu Davids helped me to adapt well to the team. It helped that I had a relationship with them and the team as a whole.”
The former Maritzburg star has seen little-game time this campaign. Nonetheless, he is using that as a motivation to play another role within the team. That of motivating teammates.
Shandu has opted for teamwork, throwing his weight being Thabiso Monyane, who’s getting the nod for selection ahead of him.
Shandu believes Monyane is doing well and must be supported
“Not playing this season. We must be honest; Thabiso Monyane is doing well. So he deserves to play. For me, [my role is] pushing him to make sure the competition is tight and the club benefits,” Shandu said.
The 27-year-old player hopes to lift silverware this season. Pirates face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final second leg this Saturday.
“We want to win trophies and know what is needed against Sundowns this weekend; we want to make fans happy.”
The first leg ended goalless, with Pirates showing their defensive stamina to keep the star-studded Sundowns at bay.
Shandu will be content supporting Pirates from the sidelines when they line up against Sundowns. Of course, he will be doing that while waiting patiently for his turn.
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