Pablo Franco on what caught AmaZulu FC interest in Ben Motshwari

AmaZulu FC head coach Pablo Franco Martin has broken his silence on the club’s new signing Ben Motshwari, explaining what caught their interest in the player.

The 32-year-old left Orlando Pirates on Monday to join Usuthu having spent five seasons with the Soweto giants. 

He’s a new reinforcement to the midfield department of AmaZulu who have been struggling to fill the void that was left by Makhehlene Makhaula. The former Usuthu captain left in January after signing for Pirates.

According to the club’s statement, AmaZulu and Motshwari concluded a “deal for the remainder of the season with an option to renew at the end of the season.”

Martin says they signed Motshwari because of his experience, having turned out for a big club like Pirates. They are hoping he’ll assist them in midfield duels, an element that has been lacking for his side.

PABLO FRANCO MARTIN SAYS BEN MOTSHWARI UNDERSTANDS HIS DUTIES

“I think we all know that Ben is an experienced player in the PSL, he was playing for one of the best teams in this league,” he said.

“I think he’s going to give us something that we didn’t have, that balance for the number six both defending and attacking because he’s comfortable in his decision-making. 

“He’s good and defensively, he is a player who understands his duties, he’s competitive, aggressive. And I think when we were playing players in that position, we were missing always in duel areas.

“We had an opportunity to sign him and I think it’s a great decision for us.” 

The Randfontein-born midfielder left the Buccaneers despite having signed a one-year contract extension at the start of the season. However, he never featured for the side in this campaign.

During his spell with the Sea Robbers, he made over 130 appearances, scoring five goals and providing five assists.

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