The Siya crew reported recently that Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Richard Ofori faced an uncertain future following the imminent arrival of Melusi Buthelezi from TS Galaxy next season. With Sipho Chaine ending the 2022/23 campaign as the first choice at the club, it was clear Ofori had fallen down the pecking order.
It's understood his future is being discussed because the Buccaneers must now take a decision on triggering the option on his contract ahead of the upcoming season, and the clock is ticking. Ofori joined the Soweto giants from Maritzburg United on a three-year deal, including the option to trigger it by another two.
But his lack of gametime has thrown that into doubt, understandably so because he only featured in 13 matches. The 29-year-old also missed out on Ghana's participation at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year due to an injury caused by fluid in his knee.
According to sources at the club, Ofori wants to fight for his place as he backs his ability to still reclaim the No.1 jersey at the Houghton-based outfit despite Chaine and Buthelezi offering coach Jose Riveiro solid alternatives.
Ofori played 22 games in his first year at Pirates, but battled with injuries then too under coach Josef Zinnbauer, though still considered the preferred choice – the two seasons that have followed have seen him feature in fewer games and that is the main reason why his future at the club is in limbo. But Soccer Laduma understands a final decision will be in the coming weeks.
Do you believe Ofori can prove he's still the first choice keeper at Pirates?
