Banda to Pirates: ‘I’m only a call away’

ORLANDO Pirates have struggled to find a suitable replacement for the late Senzo Meyiwa.

The big question in everyone’s lips is why? Former Orlando Pirates great Patson “Sparks” Banda who is one the best goalminders to have donned the black and white of Orlando Pirates has the answer.

“The coordination of Orlando Pirates defence is poor. There’s no mechanism between the defenders and the goalkeeper. For me the problem is in the goalkeeping department. Pirates need to the hire right people for the job. I’m not saying they must hire me but they can hire anyone. Pirates need someone who also knows the culture of the team. I can also do the job. I’m available. The problem is that we are neglected. They know we are available and we do have qualifications,” Banda said.

Asked if he has applied for the job Banda said: “No, they know me. I don’t have to apply.”

The Serbian Vukusic Ivica is currently operating as the goalkeeper coach at Pirates.

Meyiwa passed away in 2014 when he was in his prime. The late Brazilian Alex Revoredo was the goalkeeper coach during the time of Meyiwa. Pirates have tried different options but non has worked well since. They have tried the likes of Siyabonga Mpontshane, Brighton Mhlongo, Felipe Ovono, Jackson Mabokgwane and Wayne Sandilands.

Non of these goal-mindershave been able to own the jersey. Mabokgwane was between the posts when Pirates were hammered 6-0 against Mamelodi Sundowns while Mhlongo was the keeper when they were thumped 6-1 against SuperSport.

Last season Pirates conceded 40 goals. Pirates Administrative manager Floyd Mbele declined to comment about the accusation made by Banda.

“Sandilands is one of those keepers you can’t rely on. He is always off his line. He needs to work on that because the opposition know he is always off his line,” Banda lamented.

Sandilands has been heavily criticized after he conceded two soft goals against Mamelodi Sundowns.