Former Orlando Pirates defender Siyabonga Sangweni has encouraged his younger brother Thamsanqa Sangweni grab the opportunity with both hands when given the opportunity by the Soweto giants.

The Soweto giants bolstered their squad with nine new signings, which include more central-midfielders in the likes of Ben Motshwari, Meshack Maphangule, Asavela Mbekile, Linda Mntambo and Abel Mabaso.

ALSO READ: Pirates sign nine new players

Nsimbi as the former tough-as-nails defenderris known gave his brother a word of advice regarding the stiff competition he currently faces at the club.

“I had a lengthy chat with my younger brother, Thami,” he told media at a football tournament in his village in Dondotha

ALSO READ: Pirates players headed for exit door (part 1)

“I always tell him that Pirates is a big team. If you are given the chance, grab it with both hands.

“You must make use of every opportunity that comes your way. Your performance will speak for you at Pirates. It is also important not to pay attention to critics.

“You must always tell yourself that if I’m give an opportunity, I will always deliver. Whatever comes after that must be secondary,” Sangweni explained as he offered advice to his younger brother.

“It is going to be even more tougher for Thamsanqa as Pirates added players like Mabaso and Mbekile who are also operating as central midfielders.

ALSO READ: Pirates players headed for exit door (part 2)

“Competition is everywhere. He knows what he needs to do. They mustn’t compare him to myself and he shouldn’t succumb to that pressure because he will find himself in a spot of bother.

“He must be Thami. In football we will never be the same. He is Thami, I’m Siya and (Lucky) Lekgwathi is Lekgwathi,” he concluded.

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Photo: Gallo Images