PSL
Makonese receives a life-line
2009-01-31 14:45
Zvenyika Makonese (Gallo Images)
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Cape Town - Santos defender Zvenyika Makonese has the chance to revive his career after having signed a three year deal with Orlando Pirates.
Reports of apparent ill-discipline off the field during his last couple of seasons at Santos has seen Makonese being side-lined from the Cape side.
Injuries and an attempt to secure a move to the English Premiership which never worked out have also contributed to the Zimbabwean defender struggling for game time over the last couple of years.
But prior to that he had shown himself to be a defender of real quality, earning the respect of his peers with his physical power, bite in the tackle and speed over the ground.
Makonese is thrilled to have joined the Buccaneers, whose high profile could well bring out the best in him.
"I'm very excited to have signed for Pirates. To play in front of big crowds is what I enjoy to do, it really helps me to lift my game to a higher level.
"Pirates are a huge club with great players and excellent management -this is a big career move for me and its like starting from fresh.
"I'm ready to work hard, challenge for my place in the team and make the most of this opportunity," said the 31-year-old defender.
Under Pirates' Dutch coach Ruud Krol, Makonse will have to compete for his place in the team alongside the likes of Lucas Twhala, Destin Makita and Lehlohonolo Seema.