Makaringe will do anything for his club and teammates
FORTUNE Makaringe doesn’t think he’s a superhero for Orlando Pirates during these torrid times, insisting he’s part of the brigade that’s working hard to return the team back to their best.
There’s been a sombre atmosphere that has engulfed Pirates since the start of the season, having fallen from the dizzy heights of being tipped as title contenders to a team that’s fighting to challenge for a spot in the top three.
A large chunk of the hoodoo was the result of the abrupt resignation of coach Micho Sredojevic, who’s left the heavy burden on the shoulders of his then-assistant Rhulani Mokwena.
The 32-year-old coach has huffed and puffed, searching for a way to get back to their form of the past two season but instead he’s had a rollercoaster ride.
However, there are players who’ve shown they will fight for Mokwena and the club badge. One that quickly comes to mind is Makaringe.
The attacking midfielder, and diehard Pirates fan, took his game up a notch when his team crashed out of the quarter-finals of the Telkom Knockout after a penalty shoot-out loss to foes Kaizer Chiefs last week.
And it is why ‘The Ghost’ will be looking at him to lead them to victory tomorrow at FNB Stadium.
“For me, it’s not a personal thing because I understand that I am a Buccaneer. So, it’s all about the whole Orlando Pirates team and my teammates,” Makaringe said.
“For me to be in this team and with my brothers that are supporting me means a lot.
“The harmony of supporting one another, it’s something that we have. It’s about the whole team rather than personal reasons.”
The fact that Makaringe has worn his heart on the black and white sleeves of the club hasn’t only made him a fan favourite, he’s also been top of Mokwena’s list this season, playing 11 domestic matches since joining from Maritzburg United at the end of last term.
The meteoric rise of Makaringe has recently seen him partner either Linda Mntambo or Ben Motshwari in the engine room, while last season’s regulars Xola Mlambo and Musa Nyatama have been kicking their heels in the stands.
Far from getting carried away though, Makaringe says he’s on form because of the support he’s received from his teammates.
“It’s been an honour and privilege to play alongside these great footballers because each one of them comes with something different and that complements the style of the team,” he said.
“The confidence lies within the whole team and that’s where I gain my confidence.”
Last week Makaringe started alongside Motshwari, but who knows what tomorrow may bring.