Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Jabu Mahlangu has tipped Sipho Mbule to succeed at Orlando Pirates.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder joined the Buccaneers last month as a free agent. In his first game in black and white colours, the player known as ‘Master Chef’ impressed and has already become a fan favourite.
Mahlangu, formerly Pule, said it was time for Mbule to revive his career at Pirates after off-field issues stalled his career.
“All these [Pirates] players are quality players, and they’re going to add value at Orlando Pirates,” he said on SABC Sport. “But Mbule, because of what he’s been going through personally, I think it’s time for him to revive himself.”
Mahlangu on his phone call with new Pirates star Sipho Mbule
“I actually spoke to him on the phone. I spoke to Sipho on the phone before his move. I didn’t know he was going to Pirates. We spoke privately. I was giving him words of encouragement because people had started bashing him. And I’ve been in that situation in my playing career. So, I spoke to him, nothing else, just to give him positive energy. And I’m expecting more [from him this season].
Mahlangu played for both Chiefs and Pirates, and just like Mbule, he also had off-field incidents during his playing days.
“I wasn’t judging him at all, the way people were bashing him on social media,” he added.
“I’ve been there.. So I think those words of wisdom, I think.”
Mbule has spent four weeks with Orlando Pirates during pre-season and appears to be a puzzle that the team has always searched for.
Can Mbule improve the Buccaneers?
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