Now that Orlando Pirates interim coach Rulani Mokwena has finally explained the reasons behind Justin Shonga’s lack of game-time, the Siya crew looks at four players who are keeping the Zambia forward out of the team – and their numbers.
Click through the gallery to see these players and their stats
Yesterday, Mokwena told the crew that Augustine Mulenga, Gabadinho Mhango, Tshegofatso Mabasa and young Zakhele Lepasa were making life difficult for Shonga, who, despite limited game-time at his club, stepped up to the hero for Zambia.
Shonga, who hasn’t made the Pirates matchday squad in five previous Absa Premiership games, scored twice as Chipolopolo drew 2-2 with Benin in an international friendly over the Fifa break last weekend.
Read: Rulani: I Don't Need Trophies
A look at Shonga’s competition at Pirates:
Mulenga – has played mostly as a wide player and started six of Pirates’ eight matches in all domestic competitions. Scored one goal and has an impressive three assists.
Mhango – the ex-Bidvest Wits attacker scored on debut against Celtic and against his former team, making it a total of two goals in five matches, plus one assist.
Mabasa – this is the man that is a direct competition for Shonga and is in red hot form at the moment with four goals from his last three matches.
Lepasa – only one game under his belt, but he’s taken Shonga’s place on the bench.
Read: How Pirates Used The Long Fifa Break
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