Malatsi backs Lorch to make an impact at Kaizer Chiefs despite his age

Former Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Thabiso ‘Skapie’ Malatsi believes Thembinkosi Lorch could still make a significant contribution to the club, despite the forward being 33.

Lorch has reportedly attracted interest from clubs in Morocco, including his former team Wydad Casablanca and reigning Botola Pro champions MAS Fes.

There is also growing speculation that Kaizer Chiefs could be among the clubs considering a move for the former Orlando Pirates player. Lorch may be assessing his future after Rulani Mokwena, who signed him for Al Ittihad, departed the club to join Pyramids.

Malatsi, who was known for his dribbling during his time with Amakhosi, said the club should not allow Lorch’s age to rule out a potential deal.

“I heard that they are talking to Lorch, it would help them a lot,” Malatsi told KickOff.

The former Chiefs player pointed to the example of the late Shoes Moshoeu, while also highlighting Lorch’s performances at the FIFA Club World Cup.

“Age is not a problem. In South Africa, when you reach 30… Look at the late Shoes Moshoeu. Lorch, we have seen him at the FIFA Club World Cup. I think if he returns to SA, he must continue with the lifestyle he was living when he was out of the country.

“It depends on the lifestyle you live and if your lifestyle is not up to date, there is nothing much you can do. But if he continues with the lifestyle he is living, know that I’m doing it for Kaizer Chiefs, I’m doing it for Dr. Kaizer Motaung, the technical staff, my family, and supporters, then I don’t see a problem.

“Age is nothing, as long as he has the talent. God has given him the talent. He didn’t borrow him; He gave him the talent. So, I believe if he lives the same lifestyle he was living out of the country, then the rest will follow,” he went on.

Malatsi also suggested that Lorch’s experience could be particularly valuable to a Chiefs squad containing several young players. He believes senior figures would be needed to help develop the club’s emerging talent and prevent too much responsibility from being placed on inexperienced players.

“There’s a lot of youngsters. I believe that the senior players are the ones who are supposed to step in and guide the youngsters.

“Because you can’t put all the pressure of Chiefs to the likes of Mfundo Vilakazi, Mduduzi Shabalala. You see that you are killing them? They should get the right guidance from the senior guys, who will motivate and encourage them.”

Lorch’s possible return to South Africa therefore remains linked to both his next career decision and the interest reportedly being shown by clubs in Morocco. Should Kaizer Chiefs pursue him, Malatsi believes the forward’s talent, professionalism and senior experience could outweigh concerns about his age.

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