The legendary Orlando Pirates jersey number 10 has become a huge topic of late.
Two players in Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng have been mentioned along the Pirates jersey number 10.
Maswanganyi signed for Pirates from SuperSport United as a surprise signing for most. Since then, Maswanganyi has proven to be a revelation. The playmaker has made 31 appearances so far for Pirates. He has 16 goal contributions in that period, with eight goals and eight assists. He also have a plethora of Man of the Match awards. His performances have also attracted the eyes of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos. He made his debut in the 1-1 draw against Andorra during the FIFA Series during the last international break.
Previous contenders
But that’s not all, as he has also impressed the Pirates fans. He has done so to the extent of them wanting him to see don the famous jersey number 10. The jersey number is currently retired at the Buccaneers in honour of the legendary Jomo Sono. In the past, some club fan favourites have not been able to wear that number. The likes of Teko Modise and Thembinkosi Lorch have not been able to wear it.
Last Pirates jersey number 10
While that debate continues to rage on, and many believe Sono was the last player to win that jersey, he isn’t. It was in fact, former Pirates fan darling Steve Lekoelea. ‘Chippa’ as he was affectionally known, was so proud to get that jersey that he combined with Kwaito star Mzambiya to make a song titled ‘Jersey number 10’.
But Lekoelea would soon lose the Pirates jersey number 10, due to poor conduct. Chairman of the Buccaneers, Irvin Khoza said the jersey will come back once another special player emerges to take it. What will it take in order to be special? Are either of Maswanganyi or Mofokeng already there?