VV not aware of Mpontshane transfer talks
ORLANDO Pirates coach Vladimir Vermezovic said the club wants to sign a goalkeeper in January, but claims he knows nothing about ongoing talks with Platinum Stars goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane.
Mpontshane, who was recently called up to the Bafana Bafana squad, let it slip earlier this week that the Buccaneers are talking to his agent about a possible move to the Soweto giants in the near future.
With Brighton Mhlongo and Philani Zikalala competing for the No 1 jersey, Pirates feel they need to bolster the goalkeeping department and Mpontshane would be a good addition.
“I don’t know of anything,” the Serbian said after his side’s goalless draw with University of Pretoria at Tuks Stadium on Wednesday.
“We need to have three goalkeepers if something happens. Unfortunately we could not sign a goalkeeper after the tragedy [of Senzo Meyiwa].
“We will try to bring in another goalkeeper to the department so it can be more competitive,” Vermezovic said.
“When we bring players, we do not bring them as back-up. Whoever comes must fight for his place.”
Vermezovic gave Thabo Rakhale his first start this season against Tuks in midweek and the enterprising midfielder did not disappoint, driving the team forward with some darting runs on the flank. The supporters were not pleased when he was taken off in the second half.
“Rakhale is working very hard and he is a talented player. Unfortunately he did not get an opportunity to play before at Pirates. Maybe it’s time for him to start now.
“He had a good game today. He was the playmaker for us. But because of his lack of fitness, he was also tired,” Vermezovic said.
Pirates dropped one place into fifth after the stalemate with Tuks, but they are still 12 points behind leaders Kaizer Chiefs.
“We tried to control the game in the middle. We created a couple of opportunities, but unfortunately we were not able to score. It’s important for us to be close to the top team come April. We have a tough schedule and I expect everybody to be serious,” the Serbian said.