Mamelodi Sundowns bring Ricardo Goss back to challenge Ronwen Williams

Mamelodi Sundowns have welcomed goalkeeper Ricardo Goss back into their first-team plans after four seasons away, giving him the chance to compete with Ronwen Williams for the starting position.

It is an unusual move for Sundowns, who rarely loan a player out for such an extended period before bringing him back to compete for a place in the starting XI. Goss spent three seasons with SuperSport United and a further campaign with Siwelele FC before returning to Chloorkop during pre-season.

The former Bidvest Wits and Golden Arrows goalkeeper was named among the substitutes for Sundowns’ opening match of the season against Polokwane City in the MTN8 at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

Sundowns coach Cardoso explained that Goss had returned because the club believed he had the ability to challenge Williams while also providing greater depth across a demanding campaign.

“Regarding Ricardo, his quality is undeniable. Ricardo was here a long time ago. Last time was on the prime of Denis Onyango and he was involved in the business of Ronwen. When Ronwen came to the club, Ricardo went out. We thought that, naturally, it would be a good opportunity to bring him back,” Cardoso told media after their MTN8 victory over Rise and Shine.

“He’s a qualified player. Last year, here and there, we had some issues with Ronwen. You remember that there was a few matches that he could not play. We need that capacity to give rest to players that play so much, that almost don’t rest on transitions of seasons, so that throughout the season we can here and there give rest. He didn’t come to substitute anyone, but he came to fight for a place that he has all the qualities to do.”

Goss was previously part of the Sundowns squad during the period when Denis Onyango was the club’s established first-choice goalkeeper and Williams had only recently arrived. He subsequently left after Williams joined the club, but has now returned to add competition and cover in the position.

Onyango remains involved with the team, although Sundowns are also planning for his eventual transition away from playing. The Uganda international was Williams’ number two for the past few seasons and is being considered for an important role at the club after his playing career ends.

“Obviously, Denis is still an important player for us, but also the age doesn’t forgive. We are preparing him to still be a player in the group important by the leadership. We are also preparing him for important things in the future, for him and the club.”

Reyaad Pieterse is another option available to Sundowns in goal. The club has extended his contract by one year, and Cardoso said the goalkeeper remains a significant member of the squad because of his influence and experience.

“Reyaad made a beautiful pre-season. We got excited about the way he understood that we give him confidence by giving him one more year contract. We activated the clause that he had with the club and he got very excited. He is an important player in the dynamic of the group, by the leadership, by the example, by the spirit.”

Cardoso also stressed that Sundowns must maintain sufficient cover in every position as they compete in a large number of matches and competitions.

“What can never happen at Sundowns, for a club that competes in so many games and competitions, is to have an injury to an important player and not have a replacement or not have a solution.”

The future of Jody February has yet to be decided. February has also signed a contract extension with Sundowns, but could leave on loan before the transfer window closes.