LAMONTVILLE Golden Arrows skipper Trevor Mathiane believes Thembela Sikhakhane will be a big hit at his new team, Orlando Pirates.
Sikhakhane (23), formerly of Arrows, has signed a three-year contract with the Buccaneers.
The defender from Ulundi in northern KwaZulu-Natal, spent two weeks training with Pirates before signing on the dotted line a week ago.
Mathiane said he knew Sikhakhane would sign with Pirates. “He deserves it. The past two seasons you could see he was growing as a player – growing into a good one too. I believe he will succeed and has the potential to be big star there,” he added.
Mathiane, a defender himself, believes the departure of Sikhakhane is not a loss because the club has plenty of players just as good to fill the gap.
He said the move served as encouragement to them that they too could follow in Sikhakhane’s footsteps some day.
“We are all happy for him because it shows the team is capable of producing good defenders. I know everyone at the team has a dream of progressing and playing for a big team.
“His move has also given Nsimbi (Lungelo Dube) a chance to shine. Nsimbi is as good at right-back as Themba. Players stand to gain from his departure,” said Mathiane.
It remains to be seen whether Sikhakhane will be able emulate players like Siyabonga “Nsimbi” Sangweni and succeed at Pirates.
Defender Sangweni left Arrows to join Pirates and went on to become a household name at the club and also at Bafana Bafana.
Mathiane said he couldn’t wait to face Sikhakhane and his new teammates when Arrows visit Pirates at Orlando Stadium for their opening match of the 2016-17 Absa Premiership campaign tonight.
He said they were well prepared for the match and the new season: “At the back we are stronger than before. New recruits Limbika Mzava and Lehlohonolo Nonyane will help us do well. Their experience will be key for this match and others to come.”
