Golden Arrows FC co-coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi has sympathised with Monnapule Saleng after the Orlando Pirates attacker was beaten to the PSL Footballer of the Season award.
Mamelodi Sundowns star Teboho Mokoena was picked as the best player for the 2022/23 season, walking away with the top gong. He also won the Midfielder of the Season accolade.
And despite Saleng playing a pivotal role for Pirates, he missed out. The speedy winger helped the Soweto giants finish second on the DStv Premiership table and qualify for CAF Champions League.
Saleng had joined Pirates at the start of the 2020/21 season from Free State Stars, and he was sent out on loan to Swallows FC to gain top-flight experience.
Upon his return from loan, Saleng established himself as one of the key players for Pirates. He assisted the team in clinching the MTN8 title and the Nedbank Cup.
In addition, 25-year old star made 30 appearances in all competitions for Pirates scoring 15 goals and making 11 assists.
With Teboho Mokoena beating his teammate Ronwen Williams and Pirates’ Saleng to the Footballer of the Season award, the accolade brought lot of debate amongst coaches and supporters.
Mokoena helped Sundowns to claim their sixth league title in a row in the just-ended campaign.
The midfielder maestro made 38 appearances in all competitions for Masandawana and scored two goals while contributing two assists.
GOLDEN ARROWS CO-COACH VUSUMUZI VILAKAZI ON FOOTBALLER OF THE SEASON AWARD
Meanwhile, Golden Arrows co-coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi says Saleng should have been named the Footballer of the Season.
“I think this topic is very interesting. You can see even coaches from both teams feel their players deserve the award,” Vilakazi said on Ukhozi FM.
“So when we look at the consistency between Saleng and Mokoena. I think when you judge them it won’t be only based on consistency.
“Both of them were playing week in and week out. If we bring in stats like goals and assists it gives a player an advantage.
“So the award should have been given to Saleng when we look at stats and his impact throughout the season.”
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