Supersport United delighted to hang on to in-demand starlet

Supersport United have had to stave off interest for their young midfielder, Teboho Mokoena, who had a breakthrough season in the previous campaign.

The Bafana starlet named as the PSL Young Player of the Season, before being honoured by his teammates, who named him the Player’s Player of the Year in their internal awards over the weekend.

His exploits did not only catch attention in the blue side of Tshwane, as city rivals Mamelodi Sundowns tabled a bid for his services, while he was also linked with an overseas move.

Mokoena remains committed to Supersport

However, it appears as if Mokoena will be staying put for at least another season, with coach Kaitano Tembo expressing delight in retaining his services.

“Teboho has been tremendous, especially with all the talk about a possible transfer, and all the media speculation in that regard,” said Tembo.

“But I’m happy that he is really focused. He has been a model professional, and I know he’s going to have a really good season because he’s had a good pre-season as well.”

Kaitano Tembo

Last season saw Supersport United return to more familiar territory, as they were back among the title contenders, just months after flirting with relegation in the previous campaign.

Tembo, who has welcomed a few additions to his squad in the transfer window, is banking on a good start, as the club seeks to earn their first league title in close to a decade.

“The team is in good shape,” said Tembo.

“We’ve avoided any major injuries, and we hope that we’ll continue through the season injury-free.

“Last season, we started well, but then had four of our top players out because of injuries. Our rhythm was compromised; we had to start again and find new combinations. I think it will be a little bit different this season – we’ll have a good start this time around.”

Kaitano Tembo