Myeni backs Orlando Pirates loanee Mokone to prove his worth at Midlands Wanderers

Midlands Wanderers coach Vincent Myeni says Jabulani Mokone has the ability to succeed despite doubts about his size and has praised the 21-year-old right-back for his contribution since joining the club on loan from Orlando Pirates.

Mokone is spending the current campaign with Midlands Wanderers, also known as Abafana Bebatha, after being sent out by Pirates before the start of the season. The defender previously had a loan spell with another Motsepe Foundation Championship (MFC) side, Upington, last season.

His slight build has raised questions over whether he can eventually establish himself in the elite league. Mokone has also gained a reputation for showboating, but Myeni believes the player’s technical qualities have not always received the recognition they deserve.

“I have always said that some of these boys [who’ve failed to crack it at big clubs before being loaned out to lower divisions] – I feel that football hasn’t been fair to them. And maybe us as coaches haven’t also appreciated their talent enough,” Myeni said.

The Midlands coach said his priority had been to rebuild Mokone’s confidence while helping him develop greater maturity in his performances.

“I think he’s a very good and talented player. I have told him that ‘boy, you are not a reject… if maybe others felt that you are not useful, to me you are useful’. I reminded him that it’s not the first time he plays in the MFC. For us it is to build his confidence, and also I want maturity in his game.”

Myeni is also working to reduce the more extravagant elements of Mokone’s style, arguing that the defender must adapt to the demands of a competitive environment. However, he insists Mokone’s height should not be used to judge his prospects.

The coach pointed to the careers of former Germany international Philipp Lahm and Brazilian defender Dani Alves as evidence that shorter players can become outstanding defenders. Both players were regarded as elite full-backs despite not possessing imposing physical stature.

“I am slowly trying to eliminate certain elements in his game because this is a competitive environment. I think he has the potential … people want to undermine him because of his height, ignoring his technical ability,” Myeni said.

“We’ve seen several world-class defenders who were not that tall … the likes of Philipp Lahm and Alves. I appreciate him, and I think he’s one of the best defenders in the league.”

Mokone provided further evidence of his importance to Midlands Wanderers in their most recent match, playing a major role in the 2-0 victory over AmaTuks at Tuks Stadium last weekend.

Myeni’s backing comes as Mokone continues his development away from Orlando Pirates, with the loan move giving him regular football in the MFC and an opportunity to build the confidence and maturity his coach believes are needed for the next stage of his career.