Thembinkosi Lorch: Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Rulani Mokwena Says Midfielder Has Settled Into Key Role

• Thembinkosi Lorch is gradually being integrated into the Mamelodi Sundowns setup
• The midfielder joined from rivals Orlando Pirates during the January transfer window
• Head Coach Rulani Mokwena has used 30-year-old "Nyoso" mainly as a substitute

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Rulani Mokwena, has shared insights on Thembinkosi Lorch's integration into the club's core group.

Lorch was one of the four players signed in the January transfer window alongside Zuko Mdunyelwa, Matias Esquivel, and Tashreeq Matthews.

In a recent clash against Chippa United, Sundowns extended their dominance at the summit of the DStv Premiership table with a commanding 2-0 victory, where the midfielder's contribution was pivotal.

Mokwena stressed the gradual process of Lorch adapting to life at Masandawana, attributing the adjustment period not to the player's skill but rather to acclimatizing to a new team.

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"He’s ready now, he’s ready, I see him in the changing room. It’s a lot of things, he comes from a team where he’s established the hierarchy because of the number of years so in the change room he’s going to position in the dynamics within the group," said the manager, as quoted by iDiski Times.

Drawing from experience working with the 30-year-old, he noted the significance of subtle cues indicating the player's comfort and integration.

He also clarified the team's approach and stressed the importance of tactical adjustment and adaptation, particularly given the rigorous travel schedule and frequent camps inherent in their calendar.

Lorch's journey with Sundowns commenced with a notable debut against his former club, Orlando Pirates, followed by a milestone goal over Mauritanian side FC Nouadhibou.

Having won the 2019 PSL Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season as reported by Goal, Mokwena hopes the former Buccaneer can help them lift their second CAF Champions League title.

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Lorch's message to Sundowns after joining from Pirates

Sports Brief reported when Lorch sent a message to the Brazilian fans ahead of his Masandawana debut.

Lorch spent eight years at Pirates and made 176 appearances, contributing 34 goals and 30 assists.

He won three MTN8 titles and one Nedbank Cup.