It’s not every day that a seasoned coach like Gavin Hunt takes a moment to praise an often-overlooked player—but that’s exactly what happened this past weekend on SuperSport TV.
The veteran tactician, known for his candid takes and sharp football mind, didn’t hold back when sharing who he believes is Orlando Pirates’ unsung hero.
And no, it’s not the usual suspects.
“Makha… Something!” — Hunt Gives Flowers to the Midfield Workhorse
While chatting on live TV, Hunt opened up about who he believes is the best player in South Africa—pointing straight to Teboho Mokoena.
But when asked about Orlando Pirates, he took a bit of a detour.
With a laugh, he said, “The best player at Pirates is the boy in the middle.
I can’t say his name. It starts with an M. Makha… something.”
Of course, fans quickly pieced it together—he was talking about Makhehleni Makhaula.
Hunt called him “the glue” of the team, highlighting how much he holds things together in the middle of the park.
While flashier names often get the spotlight, Hunt’s words were a reminder that the hard workers behind the scenes often go unnoticed.
Ribeiro’s Stats Impress, But Would He Shine Elsewhere?
Hunt also had a few things to say about Mamelodi Sundowns’ Lucas Ribeiro.
Although he acknowledged the striker’s knack for finding the back of the net, he questioned whether Ribeiro would thrive outside of his current setup.
“Ribeiro scores goals,” Hunt said, “but if you put him in Magesi, he will struggle.
He would need to work harder there.”
It was a fair assessment that raised eyebrows. It’s not necessarily a dig—it’s just a reminder that sometimes a system makes a player look better than they really are.
Moeneeb Josephs Suggests Two Names for Pirates’ Wish List
Meanwhile, former Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs is offering his own insight.
In a recent podcast chat on Soccer Beat, Josephs recommended two players he believes the Buccaneers should seriously consider bringing in.
His picks? Fawaaz Basadien, the talented left-back from Stellenbosch FC, and Oswin Appollis, the electric winger lighting things up at Polokwane City.
According to Josephs, both players could be key additions, especially as Pirates aim to stay competitive in the CAF Champions League. “They can be quality signings,” he said.
“Orlando Pirates need players who are not just good locally, but who can shine across the continent.”
Over to You—Do You Agree?
So, what do you think of Gavin Hunt’s praise for Makhaula? Does he deserve more credit for what he brings to the Pirates midfield? And could Appollis and Basadien really strengthen the team for African competition?