Thamsanqa Gabuza of Orlando Pirates

Thamsanqa Gabuza of Orlando Pirates reacts in disappointment after missed chance during the CAF Champions League match between Orlando Pirates and Platinum at Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg on 08 March 2019 ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates news: United-bound Gabuza bids farewell to Soweto giants

Thamsanqa Gabuza might not have been a firm fan favourite at Orlando Pirates, but he had a heartfelt message for the club ahead of his move to Supersport United.

Thamsanqa Gabuza of Orlando Pirates

Thamsanqa Gabuza of Orlando Pirates reacts in disappointment after missed chance during the CAF Champions League match between Orlando Pirates and Platinum at Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg on 08 March 2019 ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix

Former Bafana striker Thamsanqa Gabuza became the latest long-serving Orlando Pirates player to be offloaded by the club, as he became one of two players who’s stay at the Soweto giants ended on Thursday.

Along with Zimbabwe international Kudakwashe Mahachi, the 31-year-old was offloaded to Supersport United – ending an eventful six-year stay at the club.

He follows the likes of former skipper Thabo Matlaba – now without a club after his Bucs exit – and Mpho Makola, who will likely be playing elsewhere after being placed on the transfer list.

Thamsanqa Gabuza says goodbye to Orlando Pirates

Gabuza, who joined the club in 2013 from Lamontville Golden Arrows, made close to 100 appearances at the Buccaneers, but fell down the pecking order in terms of starting places towards the end of his stint at the club.

The player thanked the club in a statement published on its website, singling out chairman Dr Irvin Khoza for special praise.

“I would like to thank the entire Orlando Pirates family for all they have done for me during my stay here. I leave here with a lot of wonderful memories and lifelong friendships,” Gabuza told Pirates’ official website.

“I would like to also especially thank the Chairman (Dr Irvin Khoza) for the father figure role he has played in my life.”

Thamsanqa Gabuza

Gabuza made his Orlando Pirates debut in the MTN 8 semifinal against rivals Kaizer Chiefs, but would struggle for a regular place until the 2015/16 season, where he featured 20 times in all competitions, netting three goals.

In total, the lanky striker made 95 appearances with a very modest return of 11 goals.