How in-form Kaizer Chiefs striker Ashley du Preez convinced Dean van Rooyen to join Orlando Pirates

Deano van Rooyen came through the Stellenbosch Academy and was eventually made the club's captain.

Last season, the 28-year-old played a crucial role in helping his former team win their first-ever major title in South African top-flight football, the Carling Knockout.

His exploits attracted Orlando Pirates who needed to strengthen their backline.

It was not easy for Van Rooyen to ditch his boyhood club for his 'dream' team Pirates.

He had been attached to the Western Cape and a move to Johannesburg was going to be a massive change, especially regarding his lifestyle.

Kaizer Chiefs attacker, Ashley du Preez, who is Van Rooyen's cousin played a role in convincing the defender to move to the City of Gold.

"Yes, my cousin [Du Preez] told me that I could come to Joburg as there was nothing bad," Van Rooyen said on Soccer Laduma.

"He advised me to follow my dreams and join Pirates. The only problem now is we don't meet that much because we were rivals but we text each other more often to check on each other.

"But I had to sacrifice the other family as they are still in Cape Town; also you know in Cape Town I used to be indoors and just go the mall to buy groceries but here things are so far apart and then there is the traffic on the roads," he added.

"I think that's the main difference for now. But I am getting used to life in Gauteng now."

Van Rooyen has since settled well in the Jose Riveiro-led team, already making 10 appearances across all competitions.

As Bucs hope to challenge for the Premier Soccer League title this season, the right-back will definitely be among the key players.