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Orlando Pirates sell Brighton Mhlongo and Riyaad Norodien to Bidvest Wits and Cape Town City respectively

Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed that goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo has secured a permanent move to Bidvest Wits.

The lanky shot-stopper was initially believed to be on his way to Cape Town City until John Comitis refuted the claims a few weeks ago.

Mhlongo, 27, lost his place in the Pirates starting line-up following the club's worst ever campaign in the PSL era two seasons ago, where they finished 11th on the PSL log. 

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At the time, he was Pirates' first choice keeper, but the arrival of Wayne Sandilands coupled with Jackson Mabokgwane's resurgence saw relegated him relegated to the bench.   

Mhlongo was then snapped up by Chippa United on a season-long loan deal. 

He was expected to be a regular at the Chilli Boys, but despite playing the first few matches at the start of the season, Daniel Akpeyi came back stronger to reclaim his No.1 jersey. 

During that time, Mhlongo managed just 10 appearances in all competitions. He conceded 11 goals and kept a mere five clean sheets in the process.   

Meanwhile, winger Riyaad Norodien will be joining Cape Town City on a pemanent basis following a season which saw him struggle for game time under Micho Sredojevic.

The club then decided to loan Norodien to Platinum Stars for the second half of the campaing where he received considerable amount of game time at the Rustenburg-based outfit. 

While he had a slow start to the season which saw make five appearances in all competitions, Norodien ended reviving his career with Dikwena, making 13 apppearances for them and contributing three goals. 

However, his contribution wasn't enough as Dikwena were relegated to the National First Division via the promotion/relegation play-offs.

Here is an official statement as released by the Buccaneers on Friday morning: 

Orlando Pirates Football Club has reached an agreement with Cape Town City over the services of midfielder Riyaad Norodien. Norodien who spent half of the 2017/18 season on loan to Platinum Stars, will now join City on a permanent deal.

Another player on his way out of the Club is goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo. The 27-year old, who was on loan to Chippa United last season, has secured a permanent move to Bidvest Wits.

On behalf of the Club, Orlandopiratesfc.com would like to wish both players the best of luck in their future endeavours.

Further announcements will be made in the coming days so stay tuned to Orlandopiratesfc.com for the latest news on your favourite club.

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