Andre de Jong’s work rate could be the missing piece in Orlando Pirates’ title push

He is not the flashiest striker in the league. He will not score a lot of goals. But such is the work rate of Andre de Jong that there is no doubt he is an invaluable team member.

When de Jong was officially unveiled as an Orlando Pirates striker this week, joining the club from Stellenbosch FC for an undisclosed fee, he was received with huge fanfare, especially on social media. That reaction from the fraternity, particularly "the Ghost", spoke volumes about the contribution he is expected to bring and how he has become one of the best natural No 9s in the league.

Without reading too much into his statistics, the New Zealander had an impressive stint at Stellenbosch. He was a leader on and off the pitch, often acting as the glue that kept the team together. Apart from his leadership qualities, de Jong was central to the striking department, ensuring that youngsters and pacy wingers were able to shine.

He was the master of hold-up play, chipped in with crucial goals, and kept defenders on their toes with a tireless work rate — one that even opposition coaches marvelled at and applauded.

Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was the luckiest among those admirers; he has caught a "big fish" who should bring much-needed vigour to his squad and could very well steer the team to the promised land — the Betway Premiership title.

De Jong should fit like a glove in the Pirates setup. While he may not be the most tactically astute player, he has the big-match temperament (BMT) and stamina to ensure his teammates fight until the final whistle — essential given that the league is a marathon, not a sprint.

Evidence Makgopa has done his best in the striking department during the first half of the season — helping the team to a cup double of the MTN8 and Carling Knockout, and a spot at the top of the table — but something was still missing.

He may have improved his touch and finishing, but he does not always find the right channels. Consequently, some detractors felt that Yanela Mbuthuma or the frozen — and allegedly soon-to-depart — Tshegofatso Mabasa could have done a sterling job.

But enter de Jong. While he may lack a certain "bite" in his individual game, the 29-year-old will help the likes of Oswin Appollis and Relebohile Mofokeng flourish.

Appollis and Mofokeng are ball players who love to get into the final third to assist or score. Having a player like de Jong, who can grant them that freedom, will be invaluable.

It was imperative for Pirates to bolster their squad for the second half of the season. They will be under the spotlight, with high expectations to continue where they left off.

Being the early pacesetters with a two-point lead and a game in hand over Mamelodi Sundowns, this could finally be the season they end their league drought. With de Jong, it seems Pirates have built exactly the right squad to lead them home.