Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has praised newly promoted young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, describing him as an exceptional defender and a unique talent.
Speaking to the media at the Carling Black Label Cup All Stars press conference at Orlando Stadium, the Spanish coach highlighted Mbokazi's rare abilities and expressed the club's commitment to nurturing his development.
READ: Chiefs Rekindle Interest In Nwabali?
As previously reported by Soccer Laduma, Mbokazi has been promoted to the senior team and has signed a three-year contract with the club.
"An interesting prospect. He is a difficult player to find. Left-footed centre backs, there are not many of them. Strong, competitive, and a good character who is willing to learn. A coachable player so far. So, like everyone else on Saturday, this is an opportunity to confirm what I am saying, or to prove me wrong, maybe. Let's see," Riveiro told journalists.
Although Riveiro typically refrains from singling out individual players, he acknowledged that Mbokazi is an exceptional case. Having been part of South Africa's Under-20 team that won the COSAFA Cup in September, Mbokazi is poised to become a key figure in the senior Pirates team, especially given the injuries to senior defenders like Olisa Ndah and Thapelo Xoki and the recent release of Sandile Mthethwa, who has joined AmaZulu FC.
READ: Revealed: Why Dolly Missed Chiefs Showdown
"I don't like to talk about individual players so much, as you know me. But this is an exception and he will show what kind of player he is. He has what it takes to make it big at any club and once his chance to play comes, people will see how good he is and that is why as a team we have belief in him. He is an exceptional defender, I can tell you," the coach praised his youngster who is yet to make his debut for the Pirates senior team.
