Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Hleza Mofedi believes perennial match winner Monnapule Saleng will go on to reach the levels attained by legendary former stars like Tebogo Moloi in the famous Black and White colours.
Saleng has been instrumental for the Sea Robbers since he returned from his loan stint at Moroka Swallows in 2022.
The winger has already scored two goals in two league appearances this season, while he was also on the score sheet in the MTN8 quarter-final against SuperSport United. He was also on hand to bag the winner in a tightly contested second leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round match against Jwaneng Galaxy.
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"Saleng is a star. The discipline, talent, dedication, and determination are what keep him grounded, and he's been like that since his days at Free State Stars and also at Orbit College," Mofedi says, opening up to this website.
"I know him from Orbit, I was still coaching in the North West province when I first saw him. I'm very happy for him, I think it's time he goes back to Bafana Bafana.
"I understand though why he was absent from the national team. There was a time when his performance dropped a bit, but now he has regained his form again because he scores in every game he plays.
"Him, Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng, their combination is working. Pirates are not relying on one player.
"But still, if Saleng is on the pitch, he is easily noticeable. His presence is felt. There is still a lot to come from him.
"I believe Saleng is going to be a legend of Orlando Pirates one day, he will reach the level of Tebogo Moloi."
On Sunday, the Buccaneers visit the unpredictable Richards Bay FC at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium in Durban, with the match kicking off at 15:00.
Mofedi, also formerly with Ea Lla Koto, says this is one team that always gives the Soweto giants a run for their money.
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"This Richards Bay team always gives us a tough time. But for the first time in my life, I feel like we are going to give them a hiding.
"The current Pirates team reminds me [of] the Pirates of Lucky Lekgwathi. Very dangerous in the dying minutes of a game.
"So, for me, it's another win for Pirates on Sunday."