Orlando Pirates sign Boa Morte

LUIS Boa Morte says he is delighted to continue his career at a ‘big club’ like Orlando Pirates.

The 34-year-old former Portuguese international was unveiled as a new Bucs signing yesterday, penning an 18-month contract.’I am happy to join Pirates,’ he said at the press conference. ‘This is a big club with big ambitions, and I look to make a meaningful contribution.’As revealed by KickOff.com two weeks ago, Benni McCarthy played a massive role in bringing his former West Ham United teammate to Pirates.’Before I decided on joining the club I had a chat with my friend Benni. He was instrumental in influencing my decision to come to the club,’ he adds.Boa Morte was a free agent after prematurely parting ways with Greek second tier side AE Larissa just six months into his stay, following financial problems at the club.With over 300 games in the English Premiership from his 14 years in England, Boa Morte will provide Pirates with a wealth of experience, despite being in the twilight of his career.Boa Morte had spells at Arsenal, Southampton, Fulham and West Ham, who he left at the end of last season, after four years. His most successful spell was at Fulham, where he played 195 games.’I am not interested in personal goals; I am more focussed on making a contribution towards the collective. Pirates are the defending champs, the immediate goal is to successfully defend the title but obviously it won’t be easy because the league is very competitive.’Boa Morte also played down suggestions that, at 34, he will struggle to keep up with the pace of the PSL.’Age is not an issue,’ he insists. ‘As long as am fit I can compete with any age group.’- kickoff.com/goal.com