Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye believes young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi can lead Orlando Pirates in the future.
The 19-year-old centre-back has been sensational at the back since making his debut for the Buccaneers earlier this year. Mbokazi has shown maturity in big games, especially in the CAF Champions League, where Pirates reached the semi-final.
Speaking on iDiski TV, the retired footballer had what it took to lead Orlando Pirates.
“He’s a future captain of Pirates, this boy Mbokazi,” Khanye said.
“He has leadership skills, and you know how sometimes they say you are born for something; he was a born to be a leader. Some of the things he does do not need coaching. The boy gets in the midfield with the ball, just driving for about 30m with the ball on his feet. His ball control, how he’s able to protect it and force a foul or even delaying until his teammates get into the Golden Arrows half and then hit a decisive pass.
Mbokazi has been sensational since making his debut for Orlando Pirates
Khanye praised Mbokazi’s qualities while pointing out mistakes from Orlando Pirates captain Tapelo Xoki.
“Well done to the boy. Like I said he has leadership skills and if you can look at this boy even at the back he is helping [Tapelo] Xoki a lot. So many mistakes from Xoki for me and always being late. I know he’s a senior player but the boy his quality, he is strong on his feet, his awareness, anticipation a lot of things and how he communicates, well done to the boy.”
Orlando Pirates have had an average season, winning only the MTN8. The club are in search of a new coach, having parted ways with Jose Riveirolast week.
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