New Zealand striker Andre de Jong eager to impress at Orlando Pirates with World Cup looming

The 29-year-old midfielder joined the Buccaneers from Stellenbosch during the January transfer window, and after two substitute appearances in the Betway Premiership, the forward netted his first Bucs goal in the 4-1 Nedbank Cup win over Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila.

De Jong first arrived in South Africa from National Premier Leagues Queensland side Eastern Suburbs FC for a spell with AmaZulu.

He only played one season with Usuthu before being snapped up by Stellies and went on to made 114 appearances under former head coach Steve Barker, netting 19 goals and creating a further 11 assists.

His form prompted Pirates to make a move for the New Zealand international with 11 caps and two goals.

Reflecting on his switch, the player explained that joining title-chasing Bucs can only be good for his career.

He said on iDiski Times: "So far it's been very enjoyable, it's always tough to move mid-season, but the players have been very hospitable for me, as well as the technical team.

"I think I'm finding my feet nicely, looking forward to a big couple weeks ahead, but so far I've enjoyed Johannesburg and the team."

“When Pirates first showed interest, it was a very exciting move for me, I think it really pushes for my aspirations to make the New Zealand World Cup team, it's one of my big goals and then Pirates have also collected a lot of trophies in the past,” the player added.

"So, joining an establishment can only be good for my career and hopefully I can contribute to the team winning more trophies."

On his World Cup aspirations, De Jong explained: "I've been called up for the last two windows, hopefully I get the call-up in March.

“There's a couple of games back in New Zealand which will be amazing to be involved in and then obviously push for that final call in May. So it's really exciting for New Zealand football, similarly to South Africa, being back in the World Cup for the first time since 2010, so big opportunity to be involved in that.”