Orlando Pirates striker Thabiso Kutumela believes he can be the new Kermit Erasmus at the Soweto giants.

The 22-year-old has recently joined the Buccaneers after having a successful season with National First Division champions Baroka FC.

At the PSL Awards Kutumela received an award for NFD Top Goalscorer after netting 18 goals for Bakgaga.

The former Baroka Fc striker is confident he can flourish in that role and believes he can be more effective if he plays with a big man like Tendai Ndoro or Thamsanqa Gabuza upfront, reports the Sowetan.

‘At Pirates I see they are struggling to fill that role of a second striker. They have struggled to replace Erasmus,’ Kutumela said.

‘I like playing as a second striker. If I play with a stronger striker like Ndoro or Gabuza, then I am sure I can score goals.’

The South African U23 international admitted that he is motivated by the fact that the Sea Robbers are playing young players in their team and he mentioned if given the chance he would prove himself.

‘These days Pirates are playing younger players like [Gift] Motupa and Menzi [Masuku]. It motivates me because they want to build a team with young players,’ he added.

‘They promised me I would get a chance. If I get a chance, then I can prove myself.’

Shakes Mashaba has included Kutumela in his 20-man Bafana Bafana squad for the Cosafa Cup and the striker will be using the tournament to prepare for the Rio Olympic Games in August.

Image: PSL website