Sebastian Pedersen nearing Orlando Pirates starting role, says Abdeslam Ouaddou

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says Sebastian Pedersen is “not far” from becoming a regular starter, but the striker’s introduction is being carefully managed as he adapts to a new environment and Johannesburg’s altitude.

Pedersen joined the South African club from Norway and has played fewer than 90 minutes since his arrival. He faces competition for a place in the attack from Yanela Mbuthuma, Evidence Makgopa and Boitumelo Radiopane.

Ouaddou says Pedersen has responded well in training and is showing the commitment expected of him, but believes several factors must be assessed before the forward is given an extended run in the team.

“There’s no issues with Sebastian, I’m happy with his commitment, I’m happy about his integration, we are doing everything to help him,” Ouaddou said.

The Pirates manager added that the club was working to build up Pedersen’s match fitness, including through training alongside players used to making an impact during games.

“Like I said, we have many strikers in that area. For sure, he’s working very hard in training, we are trying to give him really 90 minutes in the legs, with the impact players, and he’s doing well,” he said.

“So I’m just expecting the right moment to bring him into our team. I’m sure he’s somebody who is going to help us.”

Ouaddou said the coaching staff did not want to rush Pedersen into competitive action before he was physically prepared for the demands of his new surroundings.

The coach stressed that the timing of the striker’s first extended opportunity would be determined by a close assessment of his readiness and the team’s needs.

“At the same time, I already spoke about this issue, when you come into a new environment, it’s very important to bring the player in at the right timing. I don’t want to burn the player, so we have to analyse the right moment to bring him in, to help the team,” he added.

“He’s close. What I’m seeing in training, he’s doing great things.”

Altitude added to adaptation challenge

Ouaddou also highlighted the difference between playing at sea level and competing in Johannesburg, which is more than 1,000 metres above sea level.

He said the altitude was an important consideration when determining whether a new signing was ready to cope with the physical demands of football in Africa.

“Something that is very important as well, he comes into a city where we are over 1,000 metres altitude. You understand, so when you play at sea level and you come to a city playing at high altitude, it’s not easy, hey, it’s not easy,” Ouaddou explained.

“All these factors must be taken into consideration in order to help the player.”