Abdeslam Ouaddou defends under pressure Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma

Yanela Mbuthuma is a very important player for Orlando Pirates.

Mbuthuma's statistics at the Sea Robbers signal that he plays a pivotal role at the team.

But the former Richards Bay striker has been under fire from the Betway Premiership defending champions fans for missing sitters.

“Mbuthuma in the game properly if you analyse the game as a technician this guy is doing well for the team really, ” said Ouaddou.

"Of course now we are we expecting this efficiency in the last third, but we cannot kill a fantastic player with a lot of future, for Pirates, because the guy is in in a moment that is a bit difficult for him, we have to support him.

“I thank, from my deepest heart the fans of Durban. You know, because just the flowers that they sent him today, it’s a very strong message.

“You can see the boy that he was flying because he heard these fantastic words coming from the stand. It’s what it should be when we support the team.”