Posted in Features, News on Oct 15, 2017.
Lucas Radebe (1990s)
“Kaizer is one of the best leaders I ever experienced,” says Lucas Radebe about Kaizer Chiefs Chairman Kaizer Motaung, “and that includes those I had at Leeds United in England.”
“He’s an amazing man with strong values and he treats everybody with respect,” the former Amakhosi defender continues. “Kaizer is like a father figure for most players, especially for me and my teammates at the time, which included youngsters like Doctor Khumalo, Gardner Seale and Ntsie Maphike.
“He was always approachable when players were looking for advice. He has imparted a lot of wisdom.”
Radebe played for Kaizer Chiefs from 1990 until 1994, before going overseas to star for English outfit Leeds United.
“When Leeds indicated that they wanted to sign me, I spoke with Kaizer,” he looks back on his transfer to the English Premiership side. His advice was that I should go. It was typical, Kaizer thought about my career as an individual.”
The former defender was impressed to see the Amakhosi Chairman at Bafana Bafana’s recent World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso. “It showed again the immense passion he has for soccer. It was great to see Kaizer coming to the stadium to watch this crucial game of our national team game.”
Radebe furthermore highlights that “I love as well the way Kaizer always dresses nicely and looks after himself.”
“I was a bit shy when joining Chiefs,” the former centre-back adds, “hiding a bit behind the other players. However, Kaizer is the kind of person who would pick you up and put you in front. It boosted my confidence.”
“The Chairman looks good at the age of 73,” Radebe comments on Monday’s birthday. “He built an empire and a legacy for himself as well as the country. It’s absolutely amazing to realise what Kaizer has achieved. He’s one of those very special guys. We are blessed to have him and I feel blessed to have worked with him. Happy birthday to a big man.”