The 25-year-old forward was introduced as a second-half substitute during Pirates' 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals at Orlando Stadium on Saturday - his first appearance of the season.

Luthuli returned to Pirates ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign after spending the second half of last season on loan at Magesi FC.

His return has added another option to the Buccaneers' attacking department as they compete on multiple fronts.

The forward replaced Yanela Mbuthuma, with the Pirates mentor revealing that the decision was partly influenced by his intention to manage the workload of his other strikers, including Evidence Makgopa, Boitumelo Radiopane and Sebastian Pedersen.

"About Luthuli, he has been doing well since the beginning of the season in the team of impact players. He showed us some great signs, and he was scoring," Ouaddou told the media after the match.

"And I wanted to protect the other strikers, Evidence Makgopa, Boitumelo Radiopane and Sebastian Pedersen. It was a moment for him (Luthuli) to come and play; it was the right moment for me."

The Moroccan tactician was particularly impressed by the forward's technical ability, physical presence and willingness to work for the team, highlighting several attributes that could make him a valuable asset.

"He's somebody who's able to play between the lines, good in the air, and somebody who is very efficient in the box. He's somebody who can score with his left and right foot. What I like about him is the fighting spirit. He's able to press, and he's a hard worker," he added.

"I think he's the future of Orlando Pirates, and we have to give him time and keep on bringing him in to give him experience in the team."

Orlando Pirates equal club record after sinking TS Galaxy