Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has given his assessment of debutants Andre de Jong and Daniel Msendami after the duo featured in Saturday’s 2-0 Betway Premiership win over Magesi FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
The two were signed during the January transfer window together with defender Mpho Chabatsane who is yet to be handed minutes in a competitive game. Midfielder De Jong arrived from Stellenbosch FC, while Msendami and Chabatsane were brought in from Marumo Gallants FC.
On Saturday, De Jong came off the bench in the 64th minute, replacing Yanela Mbuthuma. With 14 minutes to go, Msendami replaced Tshepang Moremi as Chabatsane was an unused substitute.
The duo came on after the Buccaneers were already 2-0 up, with the Soweto giants in a commanding position, and it gave the debutants less pressure. It was, however, still a test of character for the two playing before a full-to-capacity Orlando Amstel Arena.
OUADDOU’S TAKE ON PIRATES DEBUTANTS DE JONG AND MSENDAMI
The Buccaneers coach has discussed what he saw in his new boys who stepped onto the pitch amid stern scrutiny on every touch and off-the-ball run from the fans eager to see what they offer Pirates.
“It was part of the plan when you bring in some new players. I think it was the right moment to show them to our fans as well and to give them the opportunity to start in our stadium,” said Ouaddou after the match.
“They did well, it’s not easy to come here in a new team, you have to integrate quickly. I think they did well, the time I gave them, they used it very well.
“For me, it’s a lot of hope for us for the future.”
Based on Ouaddou’s feedback, the Moroccan coach could hand his new signings debut starts against AmaZulu on Tuesday.
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