Kutumela: Micho is like a father to us

Cape Town - Thabiso Kutumela is confident that if he works hard, he'll be given a fair chance by Orlando Pirates coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic.

The 24-year-old banged in 18 goals for Baroka FC in the National First Division two seasons back, but was unable to nail down a regular place in the Pirates team last season and made only three starts and five appearances in the league.

But when asked by the Isolezwe publication if he had ever considered asking Bucs to allow him to go out on loan, Kutumela said the thought had never crossed his mind as he is optimistic at getting under opportunities under Sredojevic.

"The new coach is always encouraging us and is like a father to us," he said.

"I didn't ask to be loaned out because I want to fight for my place in the team.

"I believe that if I work hard I will get my chance and I will grab it with both hands."

The livewire forward was on target last weekend in the Multichoice Diski Challenge, netting a brace for the Pirates Reserve side in a 2-1 win over AmaZulu.

Those goals could perhaps provide the catalyst for Kutumela to light up the Premier League in the weeks and months ahead, and he'll be hoping to get a run out against Ajax Cape Town in a league match in Orlando on Tuesday night.

"I am happy that I scored two goals because this should help me rebuild my confidence and return to the form I was in during my days at Baroka," Kutumela added.

Kick off is at 19:30.