Orlando Pirates defender Sandile Mthethwa has expressed his delight at receiving more playing time for the team, after featuring in recent matches against All Stars and Swallows FC.

The 25-year-old, who joined the team in 2016 from the KZN Academy, had also previously been sent out on loan to Richards Bay and Chippa United.

Although Mthethwa only played once for the team in the first half of the campaign, he has since made a successful return to the field, featuring in the Nedbank Cup, last 32, win against All Stars and playing the full 90 minutes in a 4-1 victory over Swallows a week later.

"It's been good [to be back]. I've always wanted to play for Orlando Pirates to actually represent the club because I've been here for so long," said Mthethwa in an interview with KickOff.

"I've been on loan for about five seasons, so it [getting more playing time at Pirates] is a good thing for me and something I've always dreamed about. I'm very happy and looking forward to getting a few more minutes."

Pirates, who had a shaky start to the season, have since found their stride, winning three of their last five league matches and securing a place in the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup.

"We've been together for more time, had more training sessions. We understand each other better and understand the coach better, as well as the players who are new, I'm also new [having spent most years out on loan]," said Mthethwa.

"I think now there's a bit more unity in the team, and that's why we are doing better than we were at the start of the season."

Pirates will face second-placed SuperSport United on Saturday evening at Orlando Stadium in their next DStv Premiership match.

Orlando Pirates' Sandile Mthethwa delighted with increased playing time