In this edition of our weekly feature In The Spotlight, KickOff catches up with former Platinum Stars and Black Leopards player Tintswalo Tshabalala, commonly known as 'Kopido'.
Tshabalala reflects on the current form of Themba Zwane, noting that he is no longer the same player he once knew from their time together at M Tigers in Tembisa.
Growing up, who was your idol?
"I'm not saying he is my role model, but I admired Thabo Mooki's lifestyle the most. I was a huge fan of his growing up and used to watch him play in the Godfrey Moloi Games when I was still a young boy. I didn't start my football journey as a defender; like him, I was also skilful. He inspired me a lot."
Which PSL club is your favourite?
"I was a Kaizer Chiefs fan, but I'm not anymore. In fact, I've lost interest in PSL football lately. I don't watch much of it, to be honest."
How did your breakthrough in professional football come about?
"My football journey began at Senaone Gunners, owned by Mike Ntombela. That's where I was scouted by Mvela League club PJ Stars. However, I soon quit because I wasn't taking football seriously. I trained with Faouk Khan's Stars of Africa Football Academy, but I quit again, thinking football wasn't really for me.
"Then, I travelled to Limpopo with my close friend Jabulani Maluleke, who played for Black Leopards. I went to watch Leopards' training session, and on that particular day, they were one player short. The coach asked if Jabu's friend could step in so they could play 11 vs. 11.
"They jokingly said, 'Even if he plays like a cow, it doesn't matter, he just needs to disturb whoever has the ball.' [laughs]. I impressed them and was signed within three days."
Who was your best friend in football?
"I can't say it's Jabu Maluleke because our friendship goes beyond football, we grew up together in the same community. I never really had a close friend in football because, as you know, there are no permanent friendships in this sport."
What do you dislike about football?
"Team managers. They can be detrimental to players. They influence the coaches more than the club's chairmen do. These individuals can harm our football. If a team manager didn't bring you into the team, you might as well forget about playing time. They can be cruel, even if the coach appreciates your talent, if you weren't recommended by the manager, you might not get your chance."
Who is your favourite player in South Africa at the moment?
"Mshishi, Themba Zwane. I played with him at M Tigers, and he was truly exceptional. The current Themba Zwane that everyone talks about is not the same player I knew. Trust me when I say that things have changed for that young man."
If you could join any club right now as a player, which club would it be?
"I've always preferred to play for smaller clubs where there is less pressure. So, I would choose any of the smaller teams."