Mamelodi Sundowns midfield workhorse Teboho Mokoena has dismissed claims made by head coach Rulani Mokwena that he is being targeted by the opposition.
This after the reigning DStv Premiership Player of the Season experienced two potential career-ending tackles in quick succession early into the season.
It was as early as the first game of the league against Sekhukhune United, which they won 2-1, when Mokoena was roughly tackled by Vusimuzi Ncube.
The tackle resulted in Ncube being sent out for an early shower.
Mokoena took another vicious hit, this time from former teammate Andile Jali, who came flying with a one-footed studs-out tackle during a clash against Moroka Swallows.
Jali was also given marching orders for the rough tackle.
The consistent dangerous tackles on the 26-year-old have since raised concerns, with Mokoena’s coach suggesting he may be targeted because he holds the crown for footballer of the season.
The midfielder has, however, dismissed the coach’s claims, saying he does not feel targeted.
“I don’t think I am being targeted [by the opponents]. I am not targeted,” Mokoena said ahead of their league encounter against Richards Bay at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Wednesday. Kick-off is at 5pm.
Mokoena will be going up against his former SuperSport United mentor in coach Kaitano Tembo and said he is expecting a tough game with plenty of hard tackling.
“I am expecting a difficult game, knowing coach Kaitano on how hard he is. I know how he will approach the game,” said Mokoena.
“I remember when we were playing against Sundowns while still with SuperSport, he used to say ‘amano amano’, which means when the ball arrives, man arrives.
“So, it is going to be a hard game with harsh tackles.”
Tembo and his Natal Rich Boys will be desperate to get maximum points against the defending champions, having lost two of their last three games.
On the other side, Sundowns are already leading the pack after winning all four of their league games.
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