In this edition of In The Spotlight, KickOff catches up with Orlando Pirates legend Gavin Lane.
The retired no-nonsense center-back now turned businessman who resides in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, says he would join the Buccaneers again if he were to be a youngster again.
Growing up, who was your idol?
"I came from Boksburg and used to go watch Germiston Callies with my grandfather and my father in the so-called white league. I always used to look up to guys like Mark Hendricks and Charlie Naude when I was a pikinini. I always loved the center-half position, though I don't know why."
Which team is your favourite?
"My father had a gardener called Joseph, and also he was my golf caddie, he was a Kaizer Chiefs supporter. So I decided to be a Pirates supporter up to this day. Once a Pirate always a Pirate."
Who was the most influential person in your football career?
"My parents. They were pushing me when I was a youngster. They always dropped me off at training and took me to soccer matches. So without them, I would not have been able to play."
Your break into topflight football, how did it happen?
"When Eddie Lewis coached Giant Blackpool he recruited me from the amateur levels, alongside some few white guys from amateur leagues. Without Eddie Lewis, I wouldn't have played professional soccer."
Who was your best friend in football?
"When I joined Pirates, I shared a room with Marc Batchelor and also with Oupa Mabuza. So I don't have a specific best friend."
What do you dislike about football?
"The guys who fall too easily looking to fool the referee just to gain set-pieces. Football is a man's game, these guys must man up and play the game. I get irritated every time that happens."
To those who were not fortunate enough to watch you play, how can you describe your style of play?
"I always believed in myself and what I could do. I was always looking to win the ball through good tackles.
"The reason some players were scared of me is because I used to talk a lot of nonsense to the opposition strikers, telling them things like: 'Hey, ngizokushaya wena!' [Laughs]."
Which TV show is your favourite?
"I just watch any sports show, I don't like watching too many movies and soapies. I'd rather watch golf, cricket, and rugby."
If you could join any club right now as a player, which club would it be?
"Orlando Pirates. Now they are looking good again. Imagine this Pirates team with a Gavin Lane inside? I had a great time with Pirates. I wish I could earn what they are earning today [laughs]."
Which opponent gave you sleepless nights?
"There was a lot of them, from Raphael Chukwu to Daniel Mudau."
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
"I have traveled the world, but nothing compares to Durban, where I am currently staying. I have been here for 25 years and it's unbelievable. Perfect weather and the sea is right in front of you."