Former Orlando Pirates striker Jerry Sikhosana has expressed disappointment with the club, claiming that his contributions to the Buccaneers have not been properly recognised since he retired from professional football.

Sikhosana, popularly known as ‘Legs of Thunder,’ remains one of the memorable figures in Pirates' history, particularly because of his role in the club's historic 1995 CAF Champions League triumph. He scored a crucial goal in the second leg against ASEC Mimosas, helping the Soweto giants secure their only title in the competition.

The 57-year-old joined Pirates from Witbank Aces in 1993 and represented the club until 1998 before returning for another spell between 2000 and 2001. During his time with the Buccaneers, he scored 44 goals in 125 appearances, establishing himself as an important attacking figure.

Despite these achievements, Sikhosana believes the club has not given him the recognition he deserves. Speaking on the Kasi Jam podcast, he recalled an incident in which he had to queue alongside ordinary supporters to buy a ticket to watch a Pirates match.

He said the experience left him feeling unappreciated, considering his contribution to one of the club's greatest achievements.

According to Sikhosana, the star displayed on the Pirates jersey should remind supporters of the players who helped the club earn that historic honour.

“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 said.

The former striker also recounted an incident in Durban involving Pirates media officer Thandi Merafe and former players Edward Motale and Lucky Lekgwathi, who were wearing newly issued club tracksuits. Sikhosana felt that they had been selected to represent the club's legends, but he was disappointed that he had not been included.

He explained that he was not demanding special privileges from his former employers. Instead, he simply wanted access to a match as someone who had contributed to the club's history.

Sikhosana also praised Kaizer Chiefs marketing and commercial director Jessica Motaung for helping him obtain a ticket to watch a game from a VIP suite, despite the fierce rivalry between the two Soweto clubs.

“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 highlighted his frustration over what he considers a lack of appreciation from Orlando Pirates, despite his role in their historic continental success.

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

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