Pirates scrap January striker plans after Luthuli’s return
Orlando Pirates have shelved plans to sign a new striker in the January transfer window, with head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou opting for an internal solution instead.
Ouaddou has been encouraged by the return of Sifiso Luthuli, who made an instant impact after coming on as a second-half substitute in Pirates’ 2–0 Carling Black Label Cup win over the All Stars. The 24-year-old marked his comeback with a sublime first-touch lob, before Boitumelo Radiopane sealed the victory.
After a long spell sidelined by injury and a period with the reserve side, Luthuli has now forced his way back into the senior picture. Ouaddou believes the striker has the qualities to surprise in the second half of the season and says his emergence has changed the club’s transfer plans.
The Pirates coach admitted he had previously considered adding a striker but now feels the squad already has what it needs. With Radiopane, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Evidence Makgopa and Yanele Mbuthuma already competing up front, Luthuli’s return has further strengthened the Buccaneers’ attacking options.
As a result, Pirates will head into the new year backing their existing firepower rather than dipping into the market.
