The head coach of Orlando Pirates, Abdelslam Waddu, expresses hope that the club will make additional transfers before the transfer window closes, specifically noting the need to reinforce the right-back position.
The team has faced a shortage of players in this position after Bandile Shandu left the club at the end of last season, as well as after the departure of Deano Van Rooyen and Tabiso Lebitso. Furthermore, they recently failed to sign the Bafana Bafana national team's right-back, Tabanga Matuludi, who moved from Polokwane City to Mamelodi Sundowns.
Although Kamogelo Selebele is capable of playing as a right wing-back, Waddu admits that he needs another option as Pirates prepare for participation in several tournaments.
The coach stated: 'I love Selebele, but you cannot force him to play 60 matches. He is not a robot,' Waddu said after Pirates defeated La Kure Waves 3-1 on Saturday, allowing them to advance to the final qualifying round of the CAF Champions League.
The Moroccan manager believes that using players out of their primary positions can serve as a temporary solution, but it cannot be a long-term strategy for a team aiming for an attacking style of play.
He explained: 'We can sometimes find some solutions, like a spare wheel when the car is stuck. But a spare wheel won't always work, especially with how we want to play. We want to play attacking football, using the flanks. I can use a central defender (on the right flank) in one or two games, but in other matches you need someone reliable in that position.'
Pirates are simultaneously defending their Betway Premier League title and participating in the CAF Champions League, as well as domestic cup competitions, which significantly increases the load on the squad.
Waddu's comments indicate that strengthening this position has become a priority before the transfer deadline, especially given Selebele's high workload. The coach hopes that the club will find a permanent solution instead of relying on what he called a 'spare wheel' when squad selection leaves him short on the right flank.
It is concerning that there are currently no reports about potential targets to strengthen the right-back position at Pirates FC.
