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Mhlongo still a Pirate despite Chippa loan

Cape Town - Chippa United goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo says he is committed to doing his best for the Chilli Boys while on loan, but is still an Orlando Pirates player at heart and hopes to return to Mayfair to reclaim his place. 

The Bafana Bafana international was loaned to Chippa at the start of the season after a poor 2016/17 for the Sea Robbers in which 40 league goals were conceded and Bucs finished 11th in the standings. 

During that period he managed just three clean sheets as fellow shot-stoppers Jackson Mabokgwane and Siyabonga Mpontshane were criticised for their displays in goal.

The arrival of Wayne Sandilands at the start of 2017/18 saw Mhlongo move to Port Elizabeth where he has been competing for a place in the starting line-up alongside incumbent Daniel Akpeyi.  

"Obviously it came as a surprise, but I had a chat with the chairman [Irvin Khoza]," the 27-year-old told KickOff website.

"He showed me the pros and cons of everything that has been happening. I am still grateful for the support he showed me and I know I will always be part of them. 

"The move was a surprise, but at the same time I took it as a blessing in disguise to say I need to start all over again and rediscover myself and just showcase my God-given talent.

"It's a loan deal. At the end of the season, by law, I need to go back to my mother club. Right now my job is to do well for Chippa United. I would love to focus on getting game-time and to repay the faith both chairmen [Chippa Mpengesii and Khoza] have shown in me. 

"I need to keep working hard and the rest will follow. Obviously, Pirates will forever be in my family, so only God knows what will happen in the future."

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