Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates midfielder Teko Modise has revealed that his "Dona" nickname was given to him because of the late Diego Maradona.
Read: Maradona's Doctor Under Investigation, Has House Raided
While many in South Africa thought Modise's nickname was linked to former Italy midfielder Roberto Donadoni, the Bafana legend told Soccer Laduma that he was given his nickname because of Maradona, who sadly passed away last week Wednesday.
In a tribute to the Albiceleste legend in the latest edition of Soccer Laduma, issue 1202, which is out in the shops this week, Modise spoke about how being nicknamed after the Argentina legend was an honour but also put a lot of pressure on his shoulders.
Scroll through the gallery below to see some images of Lionel Messi's tribute to Maradona:
"I was given the nickname 'Dona' because of him, and that was when I did not even know him and had not watched him," Modise explained.
"For us as young footballers, everybody wanted to be like him, especially on the pitch. I think he is one guy who showed how far talent can take you.
"But the nickname also came with pressure. The nickname came with the No. 10 jersey as well and it is a lot of pressure to be given such a nickname and the No. 10, there are so many expectations.
"It was an honour and a privilege as well, and it also made me want to be the best version of myself while I carried his name as well."
You can read more of Modise's words for Maradona, as well as tributes from 1990 FIFA World Cup winner Lothar Matthaus and Mzansi legend Quinton Fortune, in this week's edition of Soccer Laduma, issue 1202.
It's been a real honour to work on a tribute for the late Diego Maradona. Thanks to @LMatthaeus10, @QuintonFortune and Teko Modise for their input on one the greatest players the game has ever seen.
— David Kappel (@kappilinho) December 2, 2020
Diego - football will never forget you! Read it in this week's @Soccer_Laduma pic.twitter.com/p0b8VnIrrY
