Stars of Africa Football Academy director Farouk Khan has defended his former academy player Kabelo Dlamini from the criticism he’s been receiving from Orlando Pirates fans.
Dlamini has made 13 appearances for the Sea Robbers this season in all competitions. In all the matches he played this season the Buccaneers won five league matches. Furthermore, “Shuffle” as he is affectionately known, hasn’t scored for his team this season and has only provided only one assist so far.
The 26-year-old’s recent performances at Pirates have been under a serious scrutiny amongst Pirates fans. Some Pirates fans on social media feel coach Jose Riveiro is being unfair to the other players by giving Dlamini a chance to play because he hasn’t contributed much to the team this season. Some want the player to be sold or to at least be relegated to the bench.
Yet, Farouk Khan still believes his former player has what it takes if he is used in the right position. Khan says Dlamini has the ability to score goals but his defensive qualities are not the best. Dlamini was part of Stars of Africa Football Academy before he played professionally.
“He is an exceptional talent if you play him to his strengths. His vision and passing ability are second to none. If he is used as a number ten to link up the attack, he can cause [the] team’s problems,” he told ThisIsFootball.Africa.
“He also has an eye for goal, making late runs into the attacking third and taking shots from outside the box. His defensive qualities are not his best attributes and he can improve on them. When working with him in the Academy I found him coachable and a good team player with a great attitude.”
Since Riveiro joined Pirates Dlamini has been used in central midfield position and as a right sided forward. The attacker has lifted MTN8 two trophies since he joined Orlando Pirates from Bloemfontein Celtics.
