Head coach Rulani Mokwena has drawn similarities between midfielder Lesiba Nku's situation at Mamelodi Sundowns to that of Croatian veteran Luka Modric shortly after his arrival at Real Madrid.
Sundowns extended their lead at the summit of the DStv Premiership standings with a 1-0 win over Royal AM thanks to a late Peter Shalulile goal.
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The assist for the goal was provided by Lesiba Nku, who was somewhat of a surprise signing from now relegated Marumo Gallants and has endured a mixed reception from Sundowns supporters.
However, speaking at the post-match press conference pleaded with the Masandawana faithful to be patient with Nku, drawing inspiration from Modric, who was a surprise signing by Real Madrid but ultimately went on to win the 2018 Ballon d'Or.
"The subs did exceptionally well. Mendieta I though did very well, Lesiba Nku,the impact was good
"And I said, and I will say this again, there was a time when Real Madrid signed Luka Modric and the Real Madrid fans were not so convinced and it's funny because the Sundowns fans forget very quickly how Neo Maema came and there were question marks, Khuliso Mudau came and there were question marks. I can go on and on.
"But they improved because of coaching and the work that we do behind the scenes. I'm just pleadings with he Sundowns supporters to be a bit more patient with Lesiba Nku; he's got so many weapons.
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"Players like Lesiba Nku succeed in football and at big clubs because they've got so many weapons; he dribbles, he is fast, he defends, he counter-presses. He is always in the box. Watch Lesiba Nku, he always runs into the box from wide positions.
"A player with those type of qualities from a big club is a huge asset. There is just an adaptation that needs to take place because part of his development and career and education is a little bit of trauma.
"You must understand, you are coming from a team that is fighting relegation and gets relegated and you are key player, so of course, there is a sense of accountability that takes place, and so psychologically you've got to overcome that before you have to adapt to paying for a big team
"So, there is so much that is happening, but my plea is; be patient, you will understand why Lesiba Nku was signed at Sundowns. I'm just asking the Sundowns fans to be a bit more patient with Lesiba Nku."
The DStv Premiership champions will return to action when they take on Thwihli Thwahla once more at Harry Gwala Stadium on Tuesday.
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