Mongala's future at Pirates uncertain

THATO KALA
Correspondent | Tuesday October 26, 2010 00:00

The Botswana international has spent the early stages of the ABSA Premiership season on the sidelines after the arrival of Daine Klate and Tlou Segolela from SuperSport United and Bloemfontein Celtic respectively.   Mongala, who is in his second season with Pirates, admits breaking into the Buccaneers' starting line-up will be difficult as the club also has Dikgang Mabalane and Mark Mayambela in his position.

Asked about seeking a loan move, he said: 'I am not the one to decide, it is the coach. It is all up to the club to make that decision.' The stylish winger could not hide his frustration at being overlooked. 'I cannot say I am happy at Pirates when I am not playing. I am not happy because I also want to get a chance to prove myself,' said a dissatisfied Mongala.  

He, however, added that he would continue to work hard in order to make the line-up. He said Krol has been mum on his future. 'The coach has not said anything about my situation.'

Mzambiya, as he is affectionately known, was on the bench when Pirates fell 0-1 at the hands of Mpumalanga Black Aces last Wednesday. Pirates' midfielder, Thulasizwe Mbuyane has thrown his weight behind the Zebras' star. 'For some time he had an injury that he picked up during one of the national team games and he missed a number of games.

But he seems to be finding his way back into the team as he was picked in the first 18 of the team that played Black Aces,' said Mbuyane.

He added: 'I know... there [are] so many players in his position but he must not give up because he is equally a good player.' Efforts to get a comment from the Pirates' coach were fruitless as his phone was unreachable.  Meanwhile, Mogogi Gabonamong came on as a late substitute for Santos in their 1-0 win over Wits University on Sunday.

Diphetogo Selolwane was in the Supersport line up in his side's win over Vasco Da Gama while Dirang Moloi made his first appearance on the bench after receiving his papers.