Thembinkosi Lorch left because of money: Vilakazi

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Benedict Vilakazi says Thembinkosi Lorch leaving for Mamelodi Sundowns could influenced by many things including money.

After spending nine years with the Buccaneers, Lorch made a shock move to Downs last month. The move came just two months after the star was suspended by the club after he was found guilty of assault.

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Lorch returned to Pirates in December and played a few matches before the Premier Soccer League(PSL) break.

Speaking to iDiski Times, Vilakazi expressed his shock at Lorch’s move.

TSO SHOCKED BY THAMBINKOSI LORCH’S MOVE FROM PIRATES TO DOWNS

“I am shocked that Orlando Pirates have allowed their key player to join their rivals,” he told iDiski Times.“Thembinkosi Lorch was an important player for Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns were fighting against Pirates for the league title.

“I’m not saying it’s a bad move, I’m just saying I didn’t see it coming. None of us saw this coming,” said the Pirates legend.

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Lorch was linked to a move abroad but nothing materialised. He has struggled with injuries and form in the past few seasons.“There have always been rumours that Lorch wants to go overseas. Maybe the player has always wanted to leave after winning the Player of the Season,” Vilakazi added.

“Sometimes a player is not in a rush to come back from injury and us former players, we know what that means. Sometimes it means a player is not too keen to continue with the club. I’m speculating from experience,” Vilakazi continued.

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“Another factor is money. Clubs need to respect players when it comes to money. We are professionals, we are not children,” said the former Pirates midfielder.

Lorch could make his debut for Sundowns on Saturday when the Brazilians host Pirates at Loftus Versfeld.