Sihle Nduli or Sipho Mbule? Ex-Kaizer Chiefs forward tells Orlando Pirates who is better suited for Bucs - 'You need character and personality'

Former Kaizer Chiefs forward Junior Khanye has stressed that Sipho Mbule would be a far better signing for Orlando Pirates than Sihle Nduli.

Reports have emerged that Pirates are prepared to sign Nduli from Stellenbosch, but according to Khanye, he is not suited to play for the Soweto titans.

Comparing the abilities of both Nduli and Mbule, Khanye explained why the latter is far better for the Sea Robbers.

"Yes, Nduli understands the game, but to play for Pirates, you need character and personality. You need to be like Sipho Mbule; you will not find another player like him in South Africa," Khanye told KickOff.

"Sihle Nduli was in the right place at Stellenbosch; he was their best player, and I think he was good for them.

"At Stellenbosch, there was less pressure, and the environment suited him. He could have had a wonderful career there and even captained the team at one point," he added.

"Nduli is a top-notch player, but moving to Pirates, one of the biggest clubs in South Africa, will only invite pressure on him. Personally, I would have preferred to see him progress for two or three more seasons at Stellenbosch. The players he was with there complemented his style of play. Pirates do need a number 6 and a central attacking midfielder."

Despite numerous claims of off-pitch issues with Mbule, Khanye said that should not hinder Pirates from approaching and signing him because he has the potential to become a top player.

"For me, Mbule's off-the-pitch behaviour shouldn't be a barrier for clubs wanting to sign good players. Pirates should have engaged with Mbule to address any issues. They could introduce specific protocols and conditions in his contract to manage his behaviour," he added. 

"I'm not advocating what Mbule did; in fact, it was unacceptable. However, people love him, and he has disappointed many with his actions. Pirates is a high-profile team that typically does not tolerate such behaviour, but I still believe he would have been a valuable signing for them. If not Mbule, then they should have gone after Neo Maema or Siphelele Mkhulise," Khanye concluded.

"Nowadays in South Africa, players with good behaviour tend to get more playing time, even if their skills are lacking. It's about being well-behaved, which allows you to play week in and week out, even if you struggle with basic skills."

The 29-year-old Nduli made 44 appearances across all competitions for Stellenbosch and scored one goal. After a rather impressive season with Stellies, he has now been linked with Bucs, with reports claiming he is close to signing a deal.

On the other hand, Mbule's loan deal with Sekhukhune United was terminated because of allegations of alcoholism and indiscipline.

His contract with Mamelodi Sundowns, his parent club, is expected to come to an end in June. This means he will be a free agent since the Tshwane giants are unlikely to extend his contract.

Both are expected to attract transfer interest from a number of PSL clubs given their potential.

Particularly, Mbule's situation will draw more attention because of controversies that have clouded his career recently. Whether Sundowns will extend his deal or not will be another subject of interest for the majority of soccer fans.