Jonevret makes history

The resignation of beleaguered Orlando Pirates coach Kjell Jonevret should not have come as much of a surprise to the Ghost.

Despite being headhunted by management, the Swede fell on his sword a little more than five months into his tenure. Since announcing his resignation, it has been widely reported that he is to be succeeded by former Pirates gaffer Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic, who was himself given the boot a decade ago.

Jonevret narrowly beat the temperamental Muhsin Ertugral in terms of shortest time spent in the Bucs hot seat. Ertugral resigned after less than six months in charge following a humiliating 6-0 pasting at the hands of Mamelodi Sundowns. It now seems apparent that the management didn’t adequately deal with the real reasons that led to the Turk abandoning the fast-sinking ship.

Pirates have laboured under the misconception that they had reached the summit after that historic back-to-back treble success, which was followed by an African Champions League and Confederation Cup final.

The truth is Pirates failed to recycle an ageing squad, with some of the players believing they have tenure at the team, although they had lost the hunger for the fight that the Soweto team so desperately needs.

Ertugral hinted at a cabal or a mafia that allegedly “orchestrated” his downfall and elected to jump rather than be pushed.

Pirates legends believe that chairperson Irvin Khoza is too detached. But getting his hands dirty would constitute interference in the technical team.

The truth was laid bare for all to see when the Bucs were smacked 4-1 by SuperSport United.

Pirates management need to be brave and get rid of the players who have long passed their sell-by date.