As the South African football fraternity is still in shock over the passing away of former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder and legend Isaac 'Shakes' Kungwane, former teammates of the dribbling wizard have paid homage to the man who was described as being jovial and full of life.
Shakes' cheery and light-hearted approach to life was the reoccurring theme among the Chiefs legends who took the time out to remember their former friend and colleague and express their heartfelt condolences to the Kungwane family.
Former Chiefs greats Shane McGregor, David Nyathi, Zebulon Nhlapo and Pollen Ndlanya shared their fondest memories of the late Isaac 'Shakes' Kungwane with Soccer Laduma.
"No one in football had the same sweet left foot that Shakes possessed. What a passer of the ball and definitely one of the best players I have ever played along with," commented McGregor.
"With Shakes on the ball I knew that pin point pass would come through. Shakes was brimming with life, it was very difficult to keep a straight face with him around. He was an everybody's kind of guy and I will miss him dearly," expressed McGregor.
Former teammate David Nyathi also shared his encounters with Shakes. "He was a true gentle and a gentle kind- hearted soul. He was a man who just was full of humour and it was a pleasure being around him. He would create an ambiance where you would forget about your worries and stress which we enjoyed before the match. On the field of play his unique style was a marvel to watch and he contributed immensely to South African football."
Nhlapo remembered Shakes for his gentleness and mischievous nature.
"It was so painful to learn of Shakes passing. I couldn't believe at first when I was told this great soul had left us. I always remember how much he was filled with life. Shakes was always the main attraction wherever he went. He was just that kind of person. Football has lost one of its greatest sons.
There was no one else who could pass the ball like Shakes, and even till this day you don't see any player who compares with what Shakes could do in his days as a player, expressed Nlhapho.
Close friend and teammate Pollen Ndlanya said he will remember his good friend.
"What do you say when something like this happens. I have lost a mentor and a brother. Shakes was unique, he was simply Shakes. He had a natural ability to make people laugh, he was incomparable", said Ndlanya.
"I was with him when he fell ill. I went to visit him at his home, and I was with him when he went got admitted into hospital. When the news came to me that we had lost Shakes I was in Giyani on a business deal, It was one of the longest drives back home. I miss my dear friend and brother."
