Orlando Pirates eager to back Sebastian Pedersen

The Norwegian forward joined the Buccaneers with a strong goalscoring pedigree from his homeland and will be expected to hit the ground running in South Africa.

After Pedersen got his first taste of PSL football in Pirates’ MTN8 semifinal victory over Babina Noko, Ouaddou acknowledged that the striker will need time to find his rhythm and adapt to his new surroundings.

"Every league has its own specifics, and we don't have to think just because a player comes from a European league that it would be easy here. The PSL is a high level, there's speed and organisation.

"I'm sure he'll adapt quickly, and we will help him in this new environment."

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Pedersen had a few sniffs at goal at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, and Ouaddou was pleased with his appetite to have an instant impact.  

On the game model at Pirates, Ouaddou suggested this was where Pedersen still has to play catch up. 

"I'm sure that he will help the team. Even when you have such quality you need to be well prepared and up for the challenge physically. We are still working with him to get his fitness up for my game model. He needs to increase his physical work in order for him to shine and show his quality."

Meanwhile, Pirates host Sekhukhune again tonight in the Betway Premiership and then again on Saturday in the return leg of the MTN8. Ouaddou is excited that both fixtures are at the Orlando Amstel Arena.