Zwane attributes success to Modise
Mamelodi Sundowns’ influential winger and the inaugural Hollywoodbets SAFJA 2019/2020 Men’s Footballer of the season winner Themba Zwane says former teammate Teko Modise played a significant role in the success of his career.
The 31-year-old said he had always wanted to play alongside the retired Bafana Bafana star Modise and that he was great value for the short period that he had spent with him at Sundowns.
Zwane has been a consistent performer in the team over the past six seasons.
He has played a vital role in the Brazilians’ superb domestic treble last season.
Since joining the Mamelodi side he has won four Premiership titles, two Telkom Cups, two Nedbank Cups as well as the Caf Champions League and Caf Super Cup.
The winger managed an impressive 26 goals across 41 appearances in all competitions last season.
Speaking in a Zoom presser with SAFJA upon receiving his award, Zwane praised Modise for his guidance.
“Teko is the guy I looked up to,” Zwane said.
“From day one at Sundowns he was there for me. Even when I went to Aces he used to call me and say, ‘You know what you did well but can give more’.
“We still talk me and him, we analyse my game and he tells me where to improve.
“I think Teko played a big role in my career and I really appreciate him.”
The 2019/2020 season was an impressive one for Sundowns as they made a clean sweep in domestic competitions.
Zwane said what made Masandawana a dominant team in the league was the understanding among the players and the technical team.
“The communication and the motivation among each other is powerful. We understand each other and try and fight for one another.
“That is the key to the Sundowns’ success.
“Also the mentality is different at Sundowns — we all want to fight and win.”
With the clubs signing another 11 players ahead of the new season, Zwane said it would bring more depth to the Sundowns squad.
“It will increase the squad numbers. If we are playing important competitions like the Champions League we need depth because the games are too many.”