Advice has been offered to Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro about midfield star Monnapule Saleng as the team is gaining momentum in the Betway Premiership title chase.
As the Buccaneers defeated SuperSport United last night for their fourth straight win in the league to move to the top of the standings, Saleng was a notable absentee from the matchday squad.
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Rising star and Bucs' development product Mohau Nkota was instead in the starting line-up in what looked to be a tactical decision by the Spanish tactician.
While it remains unclear as to why Saleng, who has been one of the in-form players for Bucs, didn't make the team, former midfielder Hleza Mofedi is hoping that the coach won't get tempted to a decision to rest the winger at a time he has been enjoying his game.
"I would be disappointed if Saleng didn't play because the coach was resting him. It's not the right time for that because the boy has been enjoying his game and doing well for the team. He is one of the reasons the team has been playing well and winning matches, except for the disappointment in the (Carling Knockout) Cup (against Magesi FC) last weekend. His combination with (Relebohile) Mofokeng is great and it is one of the reasons the team has been scoring goals and winning matches. The coach mustn't make that mistake of saying he is resting Saleng if that's why he didn't play last night. I want to believe that maybe he was carrying a knock or something, and let's wait and see in the next game against AmaZulu to see if the boy will be there or not and we can discuss it further from there," said Mofedi, speaking exclusively to the Siya crew.
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Meanwhile, Mofedi has got a message for champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the title race.
"I am impressed with our (Pirates) start to the season in the league and it promises to be a great campaign as far as fighting for the title is concerned. We will give Sundowns a run for their money in the title race and I've got a feeling that this could be our season to win the league. We have now played four games and won all four and are on top of the log with 12 points. What I like the most about what the coach is doing is that he doesn't change the team a lot. He has found his winning formula and is changing only when it is necessary like when there are injuries or suspensions. I know that AmaZulu are a very difficult team to play against and I just hope that the boys will do well for a fifth straight win in the league to remain in the driving seat in the race," concluded Mofedi.
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By Masebe Qina
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