Hlompho Kekana remains an iconic figure at Mamelodi Sundowns and he shares his verdict on January signings such Thembinkosi Lorch and Matias Esquivel.
Kekana, is famed for leading Sundowns to their maiden and only CAF Champions League title in 2016 – he explains why the latest signings are necessary.
The retired Bafana Bafana and Sundowns’ star reacts to the new arrivals according to SABC Sport, saying the club’s January signings were necessary to close the gaps upfront.
Although the current league champions, Masandawana boast top talents upfront such as Peter Shalulile and Lucas Ribeiro, but Kekana praises the arrival of Lorch from bitter rivals, Pirates.
Apart from Lorch and Esquivel who comes from Argentina, coach Rulani Mokwena also brought in winger Tashreeq Matthews and defender Zuko Mdunyelwa last month.
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“The signings were pretty much about the attack more than anything, if you look at the majority of the players who recently joined the team, they are attackers,” said Kekana.
“We all know what Lorch can bring to a team like Mamelodi Sundowns, he adapts quickly.”
Lorch joined Sundowns on transfer deadline and the deal caught many with surprise but the icon known for thunderbolts during his playing days, believes Lorch’s move is one of the biggest in South Africa by far.
In addition, he also claims that the talented midfielder is likely to be integrated a lot quicker into the Sundowns setup because of his experience and quality.
“They will need him very soon, especially in the Champions League, they will need fire power going forward,” added Kekana.
“What you need in a Champions League is to score goals and goals will win you football matches.”
“I watched him (Esquivel) play, what a gem – a sweet left foot.”
“Of course he is going to need to adapt and learn about what South African football is about and what it takes to be a Sundowns attacker.”
As also recently reported by this publication, Sundowns could unleash Lorch when they meet the Buccaneers on Saturday night in Tshwane.
