Former Orlando Pirates striker Jerry Sikhosana has voiced his frustration with his old club, asserting that he feels underappreciated for his contributions during his playing career. 

Known as ‘Legs of Thunder,’ Sikhosana is a key figure in the Buccaneers’ history due to his pivotal role in their 1995 CAF Champions League victory, where he scored the critical goal in the second leg against ASEC Mimosas, leading Pirates to their sole title in the tournament.

At 57, Sikhosana joined the Soweto giants from Witbank Aces in 1993 and played until 1998, later returning for a brief stint between 2000 and 2001. Throughout his time with Pirates, he netted 44 goals in 125 appearances, carving out a legacy as a memorable attacker for the club.

Despite his accomplishments, Sikhosana feels the club has not honored him as he expected post-retirement. He shared his sentiments on the Kasi Jam podcast, recounting an incident that left him feeling undervalued. He noted that he once had to stand in line with regular fans to purchase a ticket for a Pirates match, a situation he felt was inappropriate given his historical significance to the club.

“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.

Sikhosana also recalled an incident in Durban, where he met Pirates media officer Thandi Merafe and former players Edward Motale and Lucky Lekgwathi, who were dressed in new Pirates tracksuits. He perceived them as having been chosen to represent the club's legends but felt left out of the event himself. He expressed that he wasn't seeking special recognition, just a ticket to attend the game as a past Pirates player.

He acknowledged Kaizer Chiefs' marketing and commercial director Jessica Motaung for helping him secure a VIP suite ticket, despite his ties to Pirates’ fiercest rivals. “I received special treatment from a rival team that I used to dominate. Where are the people I served during the derby?” Sikhosana questioned.

His remarks reveal his discontent with what he sees as a lack of acknowledgment from Pirates, particularly in light of his contributions to the club's historic achievements. Sikhosana continues to be active in football, owning Tembisa Hollywood Thunder FC, which plays in the ABC Motsepe League.

Source: IDiskiTimes