Former PSL player and now television pundit Mark Haskins has weighed in on the expectations surrounding new Kaizer Chiefs signing Gaston Sirino, suggesting that the transition may present significant challenges for the seasoned playmaker.
Sirino recently joined Amakhosi on a two-year deal after concluding a successful six-year stint with Mamelodi Sundowns, where he accumulated an impressive array of titles and personal achievements.
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During his tenure with Sundowns, Sirino was instrumental in securing six league titles, the MTN8, Nedbank Cup, Carling Black Label Cup, and the African Football League. In recent years he was regarded as one of the top performers in the South African top flight.Now, his move to Chiefs marks his first venture outside of Sundowns since his arrival from Club Bolivar in the 2018 January transfer window. However, Haskins expressed concerns about Sirino's ability to replicate his Sundowns form at Chiefs, given the different dynamics at Amakhosi.
Speaking on Sports Night Amplified with Andile, Haskins noted, "How good is he going to be playing with the players around him, a big part of why he was the player he was at Sundowns is because of the quality of players around him and I think it's going to be asking a lot of him to now come and be the saviour of the team or whatever the case may be," Haskins told Sports Night Amplified with Andile.
Despite these reservations, Haskins acknowledged Sirino's undeniable skill set, particularly in the number 10 role, which could still prove beneficial for Chiefs.
"I do believe and we spoke about it last week, when you look at the quality he possesses, I think definitely will add value in that regard but how effective he will be when you look at the squad around him?
"He is not the Sirino that came and lit up the league, I don't think he is going to be the same player he was that we knew at the height of his day at Sundowns so it's a tough one.
"But the reality is we are speaking and saying coach (Nasreddine) Nabi's speech lamenting the fact that there's not a great amount of quality within the squad," said Haskins.
Haskins also highlighted the potential for Sirino to enhance Chiefs' attacking options, especially given the current squad's composition.
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"So, is he better than what they have? Probably. So, does he add value in that regard? He is because especially in that number 10 position, do Chiefs have a number 10 that excites you? This guy can in a moment of brilliance turn a game for them.
"I don't think they quite have that right now so then from that perspective it's a good signing but he does need players around him to complement him so that's why it could work or might not work as well," Haskins added.
Sirino's arrival at Amakhosi follows the signings of goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, Rushwin Dortley, and Bongani Sam, as part of the club's efforts to bolster their squad for the upcoming season. As Chiefs gear up for the new campaign, all eyes will be on Sirino to see if he can indeed make a significant impact and help the team achieve their goals.
