Abdeslam Ouaddou on why Pirates fans must wait for Pedersen debut

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport at the Orlando Amstel Arena before Pirates' 2-1 MTN8 quarterfinal victory over Durban City on Saturday, Ouaddou explained why the Norwegian forward is yet to make his competitive debut.

Pedersen, 27, arrived during the current transfer window with an impressive scoring record, having converted 43 percent of his chances, and is expected to bolster a Pirates attack that Ouaddou believes lacked a clinical edge last season despite winning the Betway Premiership, MTN8 and Carling Knockout.

The Buccaneers coach has repeatedly stressed that success in the CAF Champions League remains a major objective after the club's early exit from the competition last season at the hands of Saint Eloi Lupopo. 

"I think they will have to be a little bit patient because, as I said, we don't have to rush the process," Ouaddou told the public broadcaster.

"Of course, everybody wants to see the new players in the team, but as a coach, together with our performance and medical departments, we have to be cautious and make sure he is fully prepared before bringing him into the game."

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Ouaddou insisted Pirates will not risk accelerating Pedersen's return only for the striker to suffer a setback during a crucial stage of the campaign.

"When you start games, you have to be ready psychologically, mentally and physically. We don't want to risk any of those factors. When he is on the pitch, it will mean we have received the green light from the performance department."

With Pirates competing on multiple fronts this season, the technical team believes patience now will give Pedersen the best chance of making a lasting impact when he is finally introduced.