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Cape Town - Orlando Pirates have announced the signing of Thabo Qalinge and Clive Barker is surprised by his former player's choice of new club.
Read: Qalinge signs for Pirates
KickOff.com report Mpumalanga Black Aces coach Clive Barker is shocked that his former player has ended up at Pirates after Qalinge spoke about his love for the Amakhosi.
The coach learnt of the decision after the club's directors confirmed that the deal was done and Qalinge had chosen to join Orlando Pirates and not Kaizer Chiefs.
"Section", as he is known to the fans, will be missed by Barker on and off the pitch after the coach described their relationship like that of a father and son.
Barker predicts a bright future for Qalinge and is confident that, in time, he will become a key figure in the national team.
The chairman of Mpumalanga Black Aces felt that he couldn't hang on to the player any longer and decided that the time was right to cash in.
"We are really proud of ’Section’ and personally did not want to sell him, but we felt that emotionally he wanted a move - and that is football. We will certainly miss him and we wish him all the best for his career," said Mario Morfou on the club's website.
Qalinge told the club's website that he thoroughly enjoyed his time with Aces.
"I want to thank the entire Aces management and technical team for everything I have learnt. I will always be indebted to AmaZayoni for providing me the opportunity to develop as a player. It was a very tough decision having to leave Aces but in the end I have made a calculated assessment on my future." said the newest Buccaneer.
