Orbit College FC head coach Pogiso Makhoye says midfielder Monnapule Saleng is yet to reach his peak form since joining the club on loan from Orlando Pirates this season.
Saleng, who began his career at Orbit before moving on to Free State Stars, Moroka Swallows, and Orlando Pirates, returned to his former side after spending much of last season on the sidelines at the Buccaneers.
Since arriving, the winger has featured in four Betway Premiership matches but has yet to score or provide the spark expected of him. He also missed the clash against Pirates due to loan restrictions.
“Not the Saleng We Know” – Makhoye
Makhoye acknowledged during an appearance on Metro FM’s Sport Night Amplified that Saleng is finding it difficult to adjust to the demands of running a smaller team in the top level.
“The Saleng who we saw play four games at Pirates is no longer the same.
Makhoye stated, “He hasn’t given us much yet because he hasn’t scored, and he’s still having trouble.”
He added that Orbit’s younger players performed well in Saleng’s absence against Pirates, but the club will continue to support him as he adjusts.
“We’ll give him time and help him settle, but the team must always come first. The responsibility on his shoulders is heavy, but we’ll work together to lift the team.”
Orbit Struggling in the Premiership
Orbit currently sit 15th on the Betway Premiership log with three points after five games. The team has won only once and suffered four defeats.
Makhoye hopes the FIFA international break will provide Saleng and his teammates a chance to regroup before their next fixture against Chippa United on September 16.
“I think his challenges are both physical and mental. At Pirates, he was surrounded by quality players, but here he carries more responsibility,” Makhoye explained.
“The load is heavy because he didn’t play much last season. But I believe after the FIFA break, we’ll return as a completely different side.”