Former Orlando Pirates striker Jerry Sikhosana has expressed disappointment with his former club, claiming that he feels his contributions to the Buccaneers have not been properly recognised since his retirement.

Sikhosana, popularly known as “Legs of Thunder”, remains an important figure in Orlando Pirates' history because of his role in the club's memorable 1995 CAF Champions League triumph. He scored the decisive goal in the second leg against ASEC Mimosas, helping Pirates secure their only title in the competition.

The former striker joined the Soweto giants from Witbank Aces in 1993 and remained with the club until 1998. He later returned for a brief spell between 2000 and 2001. During his time at Pirates, Sikhosana scored 44 goals in 125 appearances, establishing himself as one of the club's memorable attacking players.

Despite his achievements, the 57-year-old believes the club has not given him the appreciation he expected after his playing career ended. Speaking on the Kasi Jam podcast, Sikhosana shared experiences that he believes demonstrate how former players who contributed to the club's success can sometimes feel forgotten.

One incident that particularly upset him involved having to stand in a queue with ordinary supporters to purchase a ticket for an Orlando Pirates match. Given his contribution to the club's history, he questioned why he had to go through that process instead of receiving assistance from the club.

Sikhosana believes the club's historic achievement should always remind supporters of the players who helped make it possible.

“When you see the Pirates jersey adorned with a star, the first thought should be, ‘Thank you Jerry Sikhosana, you gave us a star,’” he remarked.

He also recalled an incident in Durban involving Pirates media officer Thandi Merafe and former players Edward Motale and Lucky Lekgwathi, who were wearing new Orlando Pirates tracksuits. Sikhosana understood their presence as part of an initiative involving club legends but felt disappointed that he had seemingly been left out.

According to the former striker, he was not demanding special privileges or extravagant treatment. He simply wanted a ticket to attend a match involving the club he had represented and helped bring success to during his playing days.

Sikhosana also acknowledged Kaizer Chiefs marketing and commercial director Jessica Motaung for helping him obtain a ticket to a VIP suite, despite his historical connection to Pirates' biggest rivals.

“I received special treatment from a rival team that I used to dominate. Where are the people I served during the derby?” he questioned.

His comments have brought renewed attention to the relationship between football clubs and their former players, particularly those who played significant roles in historic achievements.

Beyond his playing career, Sikhosana remains involved in football through his ownership of Tembisa Hollywood Thunder FC, which competes in the ABC Motsepe League.

His remarks underline his desire to see Orlando Pirates acknowledge the contributions of the players who helped build the club's legacy.

Source:

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/betway-premiership/sikhosana-opens-up-on-frustrating-pirates-treatment/