Tinkler Praises Mbule’s Talent
Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler has high praise for his former player Sipho Mbule, who joined Orlando Pirates on a free transfer after his loan spell at Babina Noko ended in controversy last season.
Mbule, who was on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns, was suspended in March and later released by Sekhukhune in May due to misconduct. Despite this, Tinkler believes that Mbule is a talented player who brings a high level of contribution to his team.
“Sipho is a talented player and I watched their game against Polokwane City (in the MTN8 quarter final) on Saturday,” Tinkler said.
“He doesn’t do the fancy things, but his contribution that he brings to the team is at the highest level.
“But the question is,’Does he contribute more?’ I think the answer is no because he can do more than what he does. After all, he is a top player.
“But let me not talk about him because he is no longer with us; he is a Pirates player now.”
Tinkler’s comments come as Sekhukhune prepares to face Mbule’s Pirates in the opening game of the Betway Premiership at Orlando Stadium this Saturday.
Despite Mbule’s past with Sekhukhune, Tinkler is focused on the upcoming season and the team’s objectives.
“We are hoping that we can improve on how we played last season, and that’s why there an objectives you set as a club and coach,” Tinkler added.
“I think for me as a coach individually, the club finished fourth two seasons in a row – just fell short of CAF Confederation Cup, and next season I would like to take that one step higher.
“But we don’t look for the top three, we’re hoping higher than that and also reach 50 points as the club has never done that before.”
Tinkler believes that reaching 50 points will be a key indicator of the team’s progress, and he is confident that they can achieve this goal.
“I think if we can do that, it will mean we’re moving in the right direction when it comes to the points,” the former Pirates mentor said.
“So, that’s the main objectives we expect from each player throughout the season because next season we are guaranteed the top three finish.”
Babina Noko had a decent run last season, finishing fourth in the league with 46 points. However, Tinkler is determined to take the team to the next level and is confident that they can achieve their objectives.
