Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane feels that Oupa Manyisa is adding an important dimension to the team in terms of his selfless midfield work.
The former Orlando Pirates captain has quickly become an integral part of the Sundowns side and has played in seven of their eight league matches so far this season.
Known for his playmaking abilities at Pirates, Manyisa has been excelling at Sundowns as a ball-winner and someone who brings stability to the team, and Mosimane is highly appreciative of his efforts so far.
"It was important for us to close down Xola Mlambo and Thabang Monare [in the 2-0 midweek win against Wits] with 'Keke' [Hlompho Kekana] and Oupa, who was doing the silent, dirty job and no one notices him," Mosimane said after the match.
"But he's (Manyisa) very, very important for us, organisationally and defensively, and he keeps it simple. The most important thing was to close Monare and Mlambo, not allowing them to face our goals and pass forward.
"Even against Pirates, he helps Keke a lot to be able to play - him and 'Shuga' [Tiyani Mabunda]. Unfortunately there are those guys that have to do that - the Toni Kroos's who have to do a little bit of a dirty job."
Mosimane says that Manyisa's work will not always make headlines or get the crowd on their feet, but that his contribution is crucial to the team.
"Oupa is humble and he doesn't need accolades or praise to do that, he sacrifices himself for the team. He's unbelievable and he gives us a big balance.
"He's like the Frank Rijkaard - when they don't play you miss them, but when they play you don't see them. It's an unbelievable contribution he does."
