Most people in football hold a sense of popularity among the fans, but there are some current and former players who are held in a higher regard than the rest. Can you name your favourites?
It takes a lot to earn the respect of the local audience, but these five men have won over the admiration of large parts of the nation.
Today, I look at five of the most respected men in South African football:
Kaizer Motaung Senior
"Chincha Guluva", as he is affectionately known, changed the face of South African football when he founded Kaizer Chiefs and then the South African Premier League in 1996. Undoubtedly one of the biggest contributors to football in the country, Motaung Senior is a legend of the game and is highly respected by most.
Dr Irvin Khoza
The Orlando Pirates legend and chairman founded the PSL in 1996 alongside Motaung. His powerful persona leaves many fearful of him, but this is purely out of the respect they hold for him, and he was a highly influential player in his day too. Nothing slips past the "Iron Duke", and even at the age of 67 he is still highly active in football as a whole.
Jomo Sono
Having played alongside arguably the world's greatest football legend in Pele, the 60-year-old is highly respected for his continuous contribution to football. Currently the owner and coach of Jomo Cosmos, Sono was also voted 49th in the Top 100 Great South Africans. His great knowledge of the game has seen him play a role in launching many footballers' careers and helping to transform the top leagues for the better.
Lucas Radebe
Having spent most of his career playing in England, Radebe is one of the biggest legends of the South African game. From his scintillating style of play to his captivating smile, it's almost impossible to find someone who dislikes "Rhoo". On top of his contribution to football, the former Kaizer Chiefs defender continuously gives back to various communities across Mzansi.
Shoes Moshoeu
Famous for his silky skills and his incredibly humble nature, Moshoeu gave more to football than football gave to him. The attacking midfielder spent many years plying his trade in Turkey before returning to Kaizer Chiefs, where he lit up the PSL with his kasi flavour. Sadly, Moshoeu lost his battle with cancer earlier this year, but his insistence in trying to change lives until he drew his last breath saw him leave many admirers behind.
Who is your favourite of these highly respected men? Let us know in the comments section below.
