Orlando Pirates release Marc van Heerden

Orlando Pirates have officially parted ways with defender Marc van Heerden, the club announced on Monday morning.

Pirates released a statement revealing the news of the departure of former Chippa United’s left back.

The former AmaZulu defender joined the Buccaneers in January last year, but failed to command a regular spot in the team.

He battled for a spot in the starting line-up with the likes of Innocent Maela and Thabo Matlaba, but he has now been deemed surplus to requirements by coach Milutin Sredojevic.

"Orlando Pirates would like to confirm that following a meeting with Marc van Heerden’s representatives last week, both parties have agreed to mutually terminate the 30-year old’s current contract,” reads the statement from the club.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club would like to wish Marc the best of luck in his future endeavours," concluded the statement.

Known for his runs on the flank and accurate set-pieces, the 30-year-old Bafana Bafana defender could not make an immediate impact with the Soweto giants.

The Johannesburg-born left back could only make two starts in the Premier Soccer League and one in the Telkom Knockout Cup for Pirates in the past season.

Meanwhile, Van Heerden’s former Chilli Boys’ teammate Paseka Mako, who has just joined Bucs from Chippa is expected to challenge Maela on the wing.

‘Sdumo’ becomes the third player to be released by the club after goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo and Riyaad Norodien who have since joined Bidvest Wits and Cape Town City respectively.

Moreover, Ayanda Gcaba's contract will not be renewed by the club, while Thabo Matlaba's future remains in the balance ahead of the new 2018/19 PSL season.