Orlando Pirates utility player Deon Hotto says he has no relationship with former teammate Thembinkosi Lorch. But he is willing to sort this out with the Mamelodi Sundowns star.
This is at the back of revelations from the Bucs Camp documentary, where Hotto opened up about his fall-out and frosty relationship with Lorch since he got to Pirates from Bidvest Wits in 2020.
The Namibian international alleged that Lorch was jealous of him for being given more playing minutes by coaches.
Speaking to the media during Pirates’ new jersey launch for the upcoming 2024/2025 season at the Orlando Stadium on Monday, Hotto said he has not communicated with Lorch since he left for Sundowns in January this year.
“There is no relationship [with Lorch] because he is not here at Pirates anymore,” Hotto said.
Wishes to settle things with Lorch following jealousy allegations
“I actually wanted to settle this with him. But it was about time the league was finishing and I went to the national team for Afcon [Africa Cup of Nations]. And while I was on the other side in Ivory Coast with Namibia, I heard he had left.
“So, we haven’t actually met or sat down just to [talk things out]. But I would most definitely want to sort things out if the opportunity presented itself.”
The documentary received mixed reviews. Many suggested that it should not reveal sensitive and personal things happening in and around the dressing.
However, Hotto has since defended the concept. He said he sees nothing wrong with the documentary revealing the behind-the-scenes.
Defends documentary showing ‘sensitive’ content
“For me, there’s nothing wrong with [showing the controversial side of Bucs camp]. There’s nothing wrong, even if you the captain of the team, it doesn’t mean we can’t fight. There are just moments, where the blood is hot, and things happen in the heat of the moment.”
Meanwhile, the Bucs new jersey was designed with a tribute to one of the core founders of the club, James “Sofasonke” Mpanza. It has his name embroidered into the back neck of the jersey.
“I am extremely excited about the new jersey, it is black, bold, and strong. And I just can’t wait for the season to start – to play in front of our fans in the new jersey,” Hotto added.
