Polokwane City striker Thobani Mncwango admits that he found it hard to focus after his move to Orlando Pirates did not materialise.

The 38-year-old was linked with a move to the Buccaneers during the transfer window after netting 13 goals in 31 appearances in all competition last season.

However, Mncowango remained at Rise and Shine and has already scored two goals in five appearances this season.

‘I can safely say I was ready to move to Pirates. I thought when I went home during the off-season, I had this in me because my hopes were high on the back of my performance last season,’ Mncwango told KickOff.com.

Mncowango admits that it was hard to concentrate on football after finding out that a move to Pirates did not materialise.

‘When I found out that I’m not joining them I started to have strange feelings but I was quick to overcome that. I realised that when I was alone that if I don’t play I will be denting my career,’ he added.

‘That realisation helped me to overcome that. But I can assure you it was not easy and it wasn’t easy for me to focus.’

When the Absa Premiership returns, Polokwane City will lock horns with Orlando Pirates on October 16.

The match at New Peter Mokaba Stadium kicks off at 15:30.