Abdeslam Ouaddou calls for support for under-fire Yanela Mbuthuma

Mbuthuma has faced scrutiny from sections of the Pirates faithful following missed opportunities in recent matches, but Ouaddou believes the young striker continues to play an important role in his tactical plans.

The forward provided an assist in Pirates’ 1-1 draw against AmaZulu at Kings Park Stadium on Tuesday and came close to scoring late in the match, only for his effort to be tipped onto the upright by goalkeeper Faveur Kouassi.

Although Mbuthuma failed to find the net in Sunday’s 3-0 victory over Chippa United in Durban, he received strong backing from the travelling Pirates supporters, who chanted his name when he was substituted.

Ouaddou believes those outside the technical team should look beyond Mbuthuma’s goal tally when assessing his performances.

"If I take Mbuthuma as an example, if you watch the game properly and analyse it as a technician, this guy is doing well for the team," Ouaddou told the media.

The French coach acknowledged that the striker needs to become more efficient in front of goal but urged supporters to remain patient.

"Of course, we are expecting efficiency in the final third. But we cannot kill a fantastic player with a lot of hope and a lot of future for Pirates," he added.

Ouaddou also thanked the Pirates supporters for showing their support to Mbuthuma during a difficult period.

"The guy is in a difficult moment, so we have to support him," he said.