Pirates midfielder Mokobodi tipped to follow Mofokeng abroad

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Innocent Chikoya believes Thapelo Mokobodi could soon leave the Premier Soccer League after making a rapid impact at the club.

The 23-year-old joined Pirates from Stellenbosch FC in July and has quickly become one of the team’s most influential players. Initially brought in as a squad-rotation option, Mokobodi has established himself as a key figure in the side’s midfield.

He has stepped into the team effectively during the absence of regular players such as Thalente Mbatha, earning the nickname ‘The General’ from the Ghost.

Mokobodi has started all 14 of his opening matches in all competitions, scoring three goals and contributing four assists. Two of those assists came in last weekend’s Soweto Derby victory.

He has also collected three Man of the Match awards, a total that is level with the highest number recorded by any player in the league this term.

His arrival initially prompted questions from some Pirates supporters, who wondered whether the squad was becoming overcrowded after the club announced his signing on a three-year contract. However, his ability to operate in several positions has quickly changed that perception.

Mokobodi’s performance against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium further strengthened his growing reputation. He controlled the pace of the match and created both goals in Pirates’ 2-1 victory, leading to wider recognition of his quality among the country’s leading midfielders.

Chikoya said the player’s influence has been clear in both defensive and attacking situations.

“This young man Mokobodi, there’s a gem in that boy,” Chikoya told KickOff.

“Whether he is defending or attacking, you will love him. He gives us that thing we call ‘third man running’. For someone coming from the midfield, he breaks the line easily. He is a special player.

“If he keeps playing the way he did, very soon he will be jetting out of the country and following the likes of Rele Mofokeng abroad.

“Mokobodi he is naturally gifted that boy,” he added.