Lorch already winning Mngqithi's trust at Mamelodi Sundowns? 'I was pleased to see Thembinkosi's hunger... it is what I want'

Thembinkosi Lorch was signed by Mamelodi Sundowns from Orlando Pirates in the most recent January short transfer window.

The 31-year-old has struggled to start matches this season; he has so far managed to get three domestic appearances from the bench.

On Saturday, he came on against Golden Arrows in the last 20 minutes and managed to get an assist as Downs claimed a 5-0 win.

Coach Manqoba Mngqithi is happy with what he saw from Nyoso.

"I must say it’s very pleasing to see substitutes really pushing to show what they have for the team," he told the media.

"Because we’ve got so many matches and these few minutes that we give them are usually an opportunity for these players to get a full match and try to rest other players that are more established within the group.

"I was also very pleased just to see Lorch showing the hunger, the level of intensity, the running off the ball, trying to get into positions, and also having an assist, that is exactly what I want from a replacement player and I was very excited when I saw that," Mngqithi concluded.

After the initial struggles that led to their elimination from the MTN8 by Stellenbosh in the semi-final, Masandawana have responded effectively.

They have so far won six matches across all competitions underlining the motivation and confidence in the squad.

The Premier Soccer League champions are in the Caf Champions League group stage, Carling Knockout quarter-final and will also play in the Nedbank Cup later in the season.

Lorch has to show he is capable of making a positive impact for the team consistently to be considered regularly in the starting XI.

Lorch has a goal and an assist in the four games played across all competitions meaing he can get better numbers in the 2024-25 season.

Mngqithi is desperate to win the Caf Champions League trophy and Lorch might be among the players to help him deliver it.