Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has welcomed the arrival of right-back Deano Van Rooyen, expressing confidence that the defender will provide his side with a valuable option.
Van Rooyen recently joined the Brazilians on a free transfer after parting ways with Orlando Pirates during the current transfer window.
His arrival comes at an important time for Sundowns, with regular right-back Khuliso Mudau sidelined by injury and expected to spend six months on the sidelines.
Cardoso was pleased to welcome the former Buccaneers defender, believing he can make a positive contribution to the team.
The Portuguese coach also stated that he is hoping Mudau makes a quicker-than-expected return to action.
“It’s also interesting because there was immediately a crisis after Zuko [Mdunyelwa] had to come out from the previous match. And today Zuko was on the bench,” said Cardoso.
“I spoke after the press conference. I didn’t know the extension of that injury. And I will repeat, I trust my players.
“I hope Mudau will come back, obviously in half a year, if not less. But I hope he can even surprise us. But I just hope him to come well.
“We have Zuko, we have [Thapelo] Morena. And now we bring in Deano, that obviously comes to help, experienced player.
“Let’s see what he can give us. Let’s hope he comes in and he will for sure embrace us. We will embrace him.
“And we will try to bring everything he can give so that he can make us better. Like all the other ones that are here.”
Sundowns are back in action on Wednesday when they will host struggling Siwelele FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.