Orlando Pirates right back Bandile Shandu has welcomed strong competition at the right back, saying a club like the Soweto Giants such fierce competition is expected because they always compete for trophies.  

Pirates signed Deano van Rooyen during the off-season from Stellenbosch FC while Thabiso Lebitso arrived in the January transfer window last season from Chippa United.  

Pirates also have Thabiso Monyane, which makes it four right-backs in the side, with the latter having played in the MTN8 final because van Rooyen was cup-tied.  

However, Van Rooyen appear at the moment to be the preferred right back in the side.  

The Soweto giants bolstered their right back position as Shandu is out injured (ankle) along with Lebitso with a knee and it is not clear when they would be back in the side, leaving coach Jose Riveiro with Van Rooyen and Monyane at the moment.

“Healthy competition is good,” said Shandu. “At a big club like Pirates, you expect quality players. It’s part of being a professional.”

Shandu suffered an ankle injury in last year’s Soweto Derby and has been out for nearly a year. In that game, he made an assist, setting up the game’s only goal which was scored by Evidence Makgopa and has not played for close to a year now.    

Pirates announced a few weeks ago that he was in the intermediate phase of rehabilitation and expected to return in mid-September.

Pirates won their fifth cup trophy over the weekend against Stellenbosch in Durban, their third consecutive MTN8 title. Shandu attributes their success to their strong team unity.

“We’re a big, happy family,” said Shandu. “We support each other, fight for each other, and it shows on the pitch. We’ve been doing this for a few seasons. The camaraderie, teamwork, and unity are exceptional.”

Shandu was speaking during the Carling Knockout round of 16 draw on Tuesday, where Pirates were paired against Magesi FC. The match will take place at Orlando Stadium on the weekend of 19 October.