SuperSport United have been given a massive boost ahead of the second leg Caf Confederation Cup final encounter against TP Mazembe, with Reneilwe Letsholonyane returning to the fray following his one-match suspension.
But despite the veteran’s recent absence, SuperSport are really experiencing a purple patch in terms of talent as youngster Sipho Mbule starred in Lubumbashi, and even bagged himself a goal.
Letsholonyane’s return alongside Mbule’s good form does give coach Eric Tinkler a selection headache ahead of Saturday’s encounter, but the former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder admits that he will have no hard feelings should the technical team opt for the 19-year-old.
“I will be very proud if he (Mbule) is chosen ahead of me‚" Letsholonyane told the media.
"It is not about me but the team and whichever players the coach chose to represent us on the day - I will be backing them 120%. Teboho Mokoena was the first one to train with us at the first team and Mbule followed later and it was easy to see that the potential they have,” he added.
“I will give all my support whether from the bench or the stands and obviously wish them to do well. At the end of the day it is not about individuals but about SuperSport United and South Africa because we are representing the country,” he continued.
Meanwhile, Letsholonyane was full of praise for the 19-year-old, but says he needs to remain grounded and continue working hard.
“We have known from the past games that he's played in and at our training sessions that he has potential to be one of the best players in the country‚" he said.
"On Sunday, he did very well in a big game and capped that performance with a beautiful goal. It will serve as motivation for him. He must keep his head on the ground and keep on working hard to try and improve on his game every session,” he explained.
"It is our duty as the so-called experienced players to try and help the young boys who are coming up because we have been down this road. We must try to help them to minimise mistakes so that they can realise their potential quicker than we did‚” Letsholonyane concluded.