Orlando Pirates midfielder Fortune Makaringe has opened up on his spell on the sidelines.
This season, Makaringe struggled to get some game time, but in a turn of events, the 30-year-old footballer has been so rapid for the Soweto giants, as he has found his mojo back.
In the last three Pirates games, Makaringe managed to play the entire 90 minutes. This was against Richards Bay, Moroka Swallows, and most recently TS Galaxy.
To add to that, in those three matches Makaringe played as a right-back due to the club’s injury woes.
Interestingly, he [Makaringe] showed signs of growing in influence as a defender and willingness to do his job wholeheartedly.
One can say Bucs right-back duo of Thabiso Monyane and Bandile Shandu have new competition in that position.
Overall, Makaringe has played 11 matches across all competitions for the Buccaneers this campaign, which mostly he came in as a substitute.
FORTUNE MAKARINGE WEIGHS IN ON BEING ON THE SIDELINES
“It’s more playing for the team on and off the pitch. So, I have been playing for the team off the pitch,” said Makaringe.
“So, you all can’t play at the same time. We need to give each other a chance. For me, it was my time to support players who were playing at the time, as much as they kept supporting me.
“When you’re in a team where you share the same vision and goals is much easier for the team to understand because we can’t all play at the same time.”
Makaringe continued: “Imagine the stress our coach has to have to have 35 good players. You can’t play them at the same time. So, it’s very important for us to know that we have a big goal that we are working towards which is to fight for everything that’s in store for us.
“So, we need one another and we need to take turns for each and everyone to come and help the team.”
The ex-Maritzburg United star will be hoping that he continues to help his side extend their winning streak to finish the year on a high note.
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