AmaZulu co-coach Vusi Vilakazi has cautioned two new signings, Sandile Mthethwa and Bongani Zungu, that they are joining a team that is performing well and may face competition for starting positions.

Both former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns players joined Usuthu last week to strengthen the Durban-based side’s defense and midfield after becoming free agents.

Mthethwa was recently released by Pirates, while Zungu had been without a club since his departure from Sundowns during the off-season.

Zungu stated that taking time to reflect on his next move was beneficial for his mental well-being.

Despite currently occupying 13th place in the Betway Premiership table, Vilakazi emphasized that the team has been performing well, having won three of their last four league matches, which helped them climb out of the relegation zone.

“I think they are definitely going to add something in our setup,” said Vilakazi. 

“But obviously, they are aware that they are joining a new train that is not starting from scratch, the competition is at the highest level for them to breakthrough. 

“But we believe in them and that is why they are here. Also, we believe that their experiences will help us a lot. But we have a lot of youngsters as well that we need to make sure that they gain experience through them. 

“So, they have a bigger part to play in terms of being in the setup, not only to play but also to make sure that we integrate the youngsters to be at the level that we want them to be.”

Due to being registered with Pirates at the start of the season, Mthethwa is ineligible to play until the January transfer window opens.

Zungu, who was not registered with any club in the first half of the season, is eligible to play immediately, subject to his fitness level, having begun training with the team on Friday.

AmaZulu will host Sundowns at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday at 15:00.