Relebohile Mofokeng backs Orlando Pirates teen Mpho Padime to surpass him

Padime has inherited the number 38 shirt previously worn by Mofokeng during his breakthrough period at Pirates. The teenager contacted Mofokeng before taking the number, which carries a notable connection to the Belgian-based Union Saint-Gilloise player's emergence at the Soweto giants.

However, Mofokeng does not want the history attached to the shirt to weigh on Padime. Instead, he views it as an opportunity for the youngster to create his own story and believes he has the ability to surpass what he achieved at Pirates.

Padime has already attracted attention with his direct approach and technical quality, emerging as one of the club's most promising young talents. His displays have underlined why Pirates have placed considerable emphasis on his development.

Mofokeng believes the next stage for Padime is turning his ability into greater consistency, particularly in front of goal.

"He called me that day and told me he's going to wear number 38, then I asked him what's the big deal with number 38 and he said he felt they should have retired it," Mofokeng told SuperSport.

"Then I asked him why would they retire it because it's not like I did something wow. I played well and had a good career at Pirates, and you can even surpass it, so why retire the jersey.

"He said I did a lot of things so I told him with his talent he can even do better. He has a lot of talent, even better than mine, but his mentality has to switch.

"He must work to get goals and assists. I think everything will be okay. Yes, he's going to be a top talent."