Mofokeng urges Pirates youngster Padime to turn talent into goals

Relebohile Mofokeng has encouraged Orlando Pirates teenager Mpho Padime to focus on goals and assists after the youngster asked to take over his former number 38 shirt.

Mofokeng, who now plays for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, revealed details of a private phone conversation with the 19-year-old during an interview with SuperSport.

Padime contacted the Bafana Bafana and Union Saint-Gilloise forward to seek permission to wear number 38. He believed the shirt had become significant enough for Orlando Pirates to retire it after Mofokeng’s time at the club.

Mofokeng came through the Buccaneers’ youth system and made 85 domestic league appearances before moving to Europe. Padime, who is from Katlehong, has followed a similar path by emerging through the ranks at the Soweto club.

The teenager made his senior debut on 29 August, coming on as a substitute in Orlando Pirates’ 3-0 MTN8 win over Sekhukhune United.

Although Padime’s ability has been widely recognised, some supporters have questioned whether he sometimes prioritises showboating and flair over making a direct contribution to the team.

Mofokeng defended the youngster but said he must adjust his approach to fulfil his potential.

“He called me that day and told me he’s going to wear number 38, then I asked him what’s the big deal with number 38, and he said he felt they should have retired it,” Mofokeng said.

“Then I asked him why they would retire it because it’s not like I did something wow. I played well and had a good career at Pirates, and you can even surpass it, so why retire the jersey?”

Mofokeng added: “He said I did a lot of things, so I told him with his talent he can even do better. He has a lot of talent, even better than mine, but his mentality has to switch.

“He must work to get goals and assists. I think everything will be okay. Yes, he’s going to be a top talent.”

Mofokeng and Padime progress internationally

Mofokeng has made a strong start to life in European football, scoring four goals and providing one assist in seven appearances across all competitions for Union Saint-Gilloise.

He also featured for Bafana Bafana in their 2-1 international victory over Guinea.

Padime has meanwhile joined up with the South African Under-23 national team. The side is preparing tactically for an upcoming youth international match against Algeria, with the new number 38 aiming to carry his promising domestic form into international football.