Owen Da Gama, the former coach of an Orlando Pirates star, has characterised his former student, emphasising the player's tenacity.
Despite having been unattached for more than two years, Da Gama has discovered and nurtured numerous talents within South African football.
His last job as a head coach was at Highlands Park where he identified midfielder Thalente Mbatha, who subsequently played for SuperSport United before joining Pirates.
Da Gama expresses his belief that there is “something special” about the 24-year-old midfielder, praising his on-field vision.
Former Pirates coach, Da Gama says he loves the stubbornness that Mbatha exhibits, noting that it is a positive trait that makes him resilient against negative influences off the field.
ON AND OFF-THE-FIELD, DA GAMA DESCRIBES PIRATES STAR
“He plays like a ballerina, he is just a beautiful player to watch playing because he can pass to the left and right, making his vision unbelievable,” commends Da Cama.
“The boy plays with pace on the ball. What happened at SuperSport was never going to define who he is, and the proof is in what is happening at Pirates.
“Imagine with little game-time at SuperSport, Pirates still saw something special.
“I think he has a bright future as long as he remains level-headed and focuses on football.
“What I like about him is that while being humble, he is a stubborn boy in a good way because he just doesn't listen to anyone.
“He is cheeky. His style is not about flamboyance but doing the job behind the scenes, working hard for the benefit of the functionality of the popular players.
“This is a player who can go and play overseas.”
