Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker confirmed the departure of Sihle Nduli, with the midfielder reportedly joining Orlando Pirates.
This publication previously reported that Nduli is quitting Stellenbosch FC on a free transfer to play for the Buccaneers.
The former TS Galaxy midfielder has been one of the set pieces in Stellies this term, winning the Carling Knockout Cup as well as the winning goal in the CAF Conderation Cup quarter-final win against Zamalek in Cairo.
Following the final league match, when Stellies had secured an extra CAFCC campaign, Barker paid tribute to Nduli for his professionalism and also extended him good wishes on his new venture.
“Here at this stage there’s a few players that we’re not offering new deals and the one that’s leaving is Sihle Nduli,” Barker confirmed.
“Personally, I would like to thank him for the individual, and the player and the commitment that he gave at this club and we’re thrilled for him that he’s leaving.”.
“So that is the one that we know otherwise the rest we’re just looking at the positions, we’re looking at the position we can strengthen.”
Nduli captained Stellies in his final game, wearing the armband for the first time, with Barker saying it a the way of showing respect to him after serving the club very well.
“Yes, yes, he is a quiet leader, he never speaks much, he plays and leads by example on the field,” Barker told iDiski Times.
“So we had it in mind today it would be a good thing to send him off as captain of the team. I reminded folk that he came on to warm up many a game on the bench for OX Mthethwa, but once OX went, he got his opportunity and he took it by both hands.
“He served the club well.”
