Jose Riveiro has transformed my style of play - Deon Hotto

Speaking to the media as part of the build-up to the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch FC at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban this coming weekend, Hotto says Riveiro’s arrival benefited his football.

As a multifunctional player, the Namibian international has become a monster under the Spanish-born coach, especially at wing-back.

He says his brand of football has not been the same since Riveiro’s arrival.

“For me, transforming me into being a player who I am now today. The role I’m actually playing at the club and yeah, I’m grateful for the transformation that he has given me in the seasons that he’s been here. The brand of football that he’s playing because it’s a role that I’ve been playing for a couple of years and I’m gelling well under his wings,” Hotto said.

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Having won four trophies under Riveiro in the last two seasons and also helped make them more competitive overall, Hotto says his excellent work is there for everyone to see.

“I think that’s why the club has appointed him as a coach to bring happiness to the club and I think we can all see the football he’s bought and the accolades also,” Hotto added.

Hotto is one of the most consistent players not only at Pirates but in the whole Premier Soccer League’s Premier Division.

When he joined the club from Bidvest Wits, he was more of a winger, contributing more to goals and assists, but as he matures, he’s been deployed more in a wing-back position and continues to excel there.

He says discipline has been key to his maintaining the standards.

“To be honest I’m trying to do my level best in the position that the coach is playing me and for me, what keeps moving me is the discipline I have for the team because without discipline, we’ll let me put it this way, If you don’t respect the game then the game won’t respect you.

“One thing I’m doing well is looking after myself so for me I think that’s my major thing in my football career.”