A former free-scoring striker for Mamelodi Sundowns has expressed his disapproval of the signing of Lebogang Mothiba, who could make his debut against Sekhukhune United.
On Wednesday, this website reported that Mothiba could be roped into the line-up in the Nedbank Cup quarterfinal against Sekhukhune with Iqraam Rayners and Peter Shalulile returning from international duty.
Sandile Ndlovu points out that the gangly hitman, who was recently brought in by Sundowns, appears to lack a defined role within the attack.
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In the past two seasons, the ex-Bafana Bafana forward has played 34 league matches for French Ligue 1's Strasbourg, scoring only six goals.
"Sundowns already have plenty of strikers, all of whom are scoring, including players like Lucas Ribeiro, Shalulile, and Rayners," explains Ndlovu.
"I struggle to see how Mothiba fits into that set-up because he is primarily a box striker. His strength lies in holding the ball, whereas Sundowns no longer play in that style.
"He might have been an effective striker for teams like SuperSport United that rely on crosses and headers. Perhaps he was signed for his overseas experience, but honestly, his playing style does not align with Sundowns'.
"That's just my opinion. I don't think he will thrive there.
"With Sundowns currently boasting three top strikers, this is the perfect time for them to nurture emerging talent from their development squad and gradually integrate young players into the first team," says the man nicknamed 'AK-47'.
Ndlovu adds that the Tshwane giants previously had strikers such as Gift Motupa, who were similar to Mothiba but ultimately didn't make it.
"At Sundowns, you need to be mobile; there's no room for simply pushing and shielding defenders.
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"Anyway, I wish him the best. He is a good player, but I doubt that Sundowns' style of play will suit him. His goal-scoring record isn't impressive, and at Sundowns, strikers are primarily evaluated on their ability to score goals.
"I also don't recall Mothiba showcasing any notable skills while playing for Bafana Bafana. The nimble Sundowns forwards are very intelligent and always anticipate third-man runs during attacks."