Lorch ready for new season: Mngqithi

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi says controversial attacker, Thembinkosi Lorch, is aware of his responsibility at the club.

The coach says Lorch is contracted to the club and has to deliver.

Lots of questions have flared up regarding the player’s future at Chloorkop after the exit of coach, Rulani Mokwena, who is said to be the key figure for his signing from Orlando Pirates.

When asked Lorch’s head space ahead of the new season, as he returned from injury, Mngqithi said he’s looking good and returning to full fitness.

“Lorch is in a very good headspace. We were with him even this morning, he’s started training although he’s not into full training,” added Mngqithi.

“It’s him, [Sipho] Mbule are still out due to minor injuries, [Matias] Esquivel might be in… towards the end of the week due to a minor strain. He understands he’s employed by Sundowns; he has a responsibility to deliver for Sundowns. And he if he doesn’t not deliver for Sundowns, we have many other options. So, it’s natural for every player to want to fight for his place.”

Sundowns will open their 2024/25 season on Sunday against Polokwane City in the quarterfinals of the at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.

“It’s exciting to play a cup match regardless of who you are playing against because it’s a time to check where your team is exactly,” he said at the MTN8 media day at Chloorkop.

“It’s always sad when it’s a cup match because there’s no room for error but I think the team is prepared quite well.

“We’re playing against a team that was [unbeaten] in the last five matches of the season after the 5-0 of Stellenbosch. So the team is strong, we drew against them, so we know what we’re up against.”