Cape Town - Retired former Orlando Pirates star Thulasizwe Mbuyane believes that assistant coach Rhulani Mokwena will have a successful career in the ranks of the Sea Robbers.

Since joining Bucs as assistant to head coach Milutin Sredojevic at the start of the season, Pirates have shown massive improvement and have since emerged as Absa Premiership title contenders.

Currently the outfit from Mayfair are in second position behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, although the Brazilians do have the advantage of a game-in-hand. 

Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Mbuyane said: "He can do well as a head coach. I mean, you can see what the guy achieved at Sundowns. He worked very well with Coach Pitso (Mosimane). He has worked with the other coaches as well in his career, including coach Khabo (Zondo).

"He started very well at Pirates. Everyone wants to work with him and that’s why Stuart Baxter wanted him in Bafana Bafana. Pirates is a big team, and with him having started there as an assistant coach will help him to learn and understand the culture of the team.

"I don't see him failing at Orlando Pirates. So far, I'm happy with Rhulani's contribution. I can see that the guys (players) are happy to have him on the team. They are in a happy space.

"For supporters, it is easy to pay to go and watch the team. It is always encouraging to go and watch a team when you know that they won’t let you down with their effort. I see a bright future for Rhulani at Pirates."