Makhehleni Makhaula, the brand-new Buccaneer is looking forward to participating in his first Soweto Derby when Orlando Pirates face rivals Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday at 15:30.
Former Cape Town City utility player Craig Martin, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and striker Souaibou Marou could also make their debut in one of football’s biggest derbies of all time.
The 33-year-old has so far only made one appearance as a substitute since completing a transfer from AmaZulu in the January transfer window. Initially he was supposed to join them at the end of the season but Pirates negotiated an early release.
“Obviously, I’m a bit nervous as I have never played in front of 90,000 fans,” Makhaula told the media.
“But I am looking forward to it, and I’m working hard every day at training. It’s going to be up to the coach to select me because I have always raised my hand. Even if he gives me just five or 10 minutes, I am always raising my hand.”
Pirates currently boast a plethora of talent in their midfield department which includes the likes of Miguel Timm, Thabang Monare, Philip Ndlondlo, Ben Motshwari and forgotten man Fortune Makaringe.
However, it is interesting to note that a 33-year-old turning 34 has never played in front of 90 thousand fans. The new signing finds himself in a place where he needs to vindicate the reason behind Pirates bringing in a player of his age firstly and in a position that is well covered.
“It’s normal, because at AmaZulu, I didn’t go straight into the starting line-up, and had to again raise my hand,” continued the former Usuthu captain.
“At training, I am always raising my hand. At Pirates, even when we play friendlies, I am always raising my hand.”
