Golden Arrows coach Clinton Larsen insists that Colombian striker Mauricio Barrios needs time to settle, but will soon show his goal-scoring ability in the Absa Premiership.

The 28-year-old has struggled to find match fitness since he arrived at the club on trials from Venezuela side Metropolitanos at the end of the 2015-16 season.

The former Bloemfontein Celtic coach believes Barrios can offer much with his goal-scoring ability, but will need time to settle in.

‘He is working hard. It takes time for South Americans to acclimatise, you can even go back to the Torrelbeas – players that were here before,’ Larsen said.

‘Castro and Barrios take time to settle, because they come from the league where the buildups are slow. When you come into an Arrows team where it is quick on break and quick combinations, he has to adjust.

‘But I am happy he is getting there. We have seen some positive signs with each performance. I am sure in no distant future he will start scoring.

‘He came close against Sundowns where he put himself in good scoring positions, but was off the target. But strikers need goals to boost confidence. I am sure once he gets one, he will give us more.’

Golden Arrows will take on Polokwane City in the Absa Premiership on Wednesday.

The match at the Chatsworth Stadium kicks off at 19:30.

Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix