Kermit Erasmus, the newly signed Orlando Pirates striker, says he is disappointed to miss out on playing for Pirates in the CAF Champions League.

Erasmus is ineligible to play in the CAF Champions League even though he had harboured high hopes of helping his new side replicate the class of 1995 by lifting the 2013 edition of Africa’s most coveted trophy.

Speaking to PSL.co.za ahead of his side’s MTN8 opening fixture against SuperSport United, the former Feyenoord front man revealed how he hoped his jersey number would inspire his teammates to go all the way in the African showpiece.

“One of the reasons why I chose to wear the number 95 when I joined the Pirates was because the team won the CAF Champions league in 1995 and I was hoping that I would be a part of generation that is currently representing the country in the continent.

“I was really disappointed to be honest (when they told me that I was cup-tied). I always knew that there was a chance for me to be allowed to play but I have accepted the outcome.

“What I can only hope for now is that the number on the back of my jersey can inspire my teammates to go on and lift the trophy.

Orlando Pirates kick-off their Wafa Wafa campaign with a crucial encounter against Erasmus’ former side, SuperSport United, and the 23-year old striker is determined to cause heartache to his former teammates.

“Playing against my former team (SuperSport United) will be a tough challenge but I will take it like any other match. They are my former team and I am going to focus on Orlando Pirates and doing my best to help the team win the match.

“I would be really happy if I were to score and help my team reach the semi-final. Playing against my old teammates will be strange, especially so early in the season but I am a Pirates player now and I want to win the match”, he concluded.
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