Orlando Pirates Eye Loan Move for Bongani Sam as Season Approaches
Key Highlights :
As the new season approaches, Orlando Pirates are understood to be keen on keeping one of their return players on their books, but sources close to the situation have suggested he could leave again on loan, the Siya crew understands. Bongani Sam, the 25-year-old left back, spent the previous campaign on loan at two clubs – the first half with Maritzburg United and the second at Swallows FC.
The loan move to Swallows FC was the one that allowed Sam to find his feet again. He had arrived at the club in the mid-season transfer window in January, but coach Fadlu Davids did not include him as part of his plan. Davids had worked with Sam the year before at the Buccaneers before he left the club at the end of the season following a sixth place finish in the DStv Premiership and his contract coming to an end.
Once Davids had taken over from John Maduka at the Team of Choice shortly after the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the tactician moved the left-footed star on and Swallows were happy to pick him up and add the defender to their roster. Sam featured in nine games to help the Soweto club avoid relegation in a difficult season that led to them changing coaches three times with Dylan Kerr, Ernst Middendorp and Musa Nyatama at the helm.
Now, Pirates are understood to be keen on keeping the player on their books, but sources close to the situation have suggested he could leave again on loan. As per standard procedure ahead of a new season, loan players are generally expected to return to their parent clubs for assessment. It’s likely this will be the same course of action for Orlando Pirates with Bongani Sam.
The Buccaneers have been in the market for a left back and have been linked with players such as Lyle Lakay, Sifiso Hlanti and Thabo Nthethe. However, the club’s interest in Sam could mean that they are looking to keep him on their books. Only time will tell what the future holds for the player, but it looks like he could be in line for another loan move.
