Striker Yanele Mbuthuma emerged as a prime example of the modern forward he wants at the heart of his system.

Mbuthuma, who arrived from Richards Bay FC, has quickly earned the confidence of the Moroccan-born mentor as well as Evidence Makgopa and Boitumelo Radiopane.

Rather than being judged purely on goals, the 23-year-old Mbuthuma has impressed Ouaddou with his all-round contribution to the team's style of play.

"I like local talent. When you have local talent, you have to give them the opportunity to shine before you look elsewhere and think the grass is greener," said Ouaddou.

"We have the chance to have some talent in the country, and we are using him well, like the other players with quality in the team - Radiopane, Mbuthuma and Makgopa."

Ouaddou described Mbuthuma as a "modern striker", explaining that today's game demands far more than simply scoring goals inside the box. With the trio contributing a combined 10 goals this season, the Pirates coach is satisfied with both their output and their work rate.

"What I like about Mbuthuma, Makgopa and Radiopane is their capacity to play well without the ball," he added.

"That football where a striker just stands in the box waiting is finished. Modern football demands mobility, pressing, making runs without the ball and recovering possession together."

Ouaddou's philosophy has paid off, with Pirates boasting the best defensive record in the league after conceding just five goals.

The coach credits his strikers for acting as the first line of defence, reinforcing the collective approach that has already delivered the MTN8 and Carling Knockout titles.

With the Buccaneers chasing the league and Nedbank Cup, starting against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, Ouaddou will again look to his modern forwards to set the tone.

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