Speaking shortly before the departure to Hong Kong for a Four Nations tournament, Radebe said Pule’s pace and skill would be crucial in lifting Bafana Bafana against the likes of Paraguay, Spain and Slovenia.

"The boy is brilliant,” said Radebe, a former Chiefs player. “We have a number of good youngsters most of them playing overseas but they have not really made their mark on the international stage. But I think Jabu will be a player to watch in our team, he is simply a marvel to watch.”

Radebe, who has been out of competitive football for over a year with a knee injury, is one of the six survivors from World Cup 98. “To be in the World Cup squad is the most important thing for me and I am greatly honoured,” Radebe said.

The Star reported on Monday that Radebe had a heart-to-heart chat with Pule giving him advice on what he has to do if he whishes to play in the European leagues.

"France 98 was a good experience and for us qualifying for the World Cup shortly after readmission was a great step,” said Radebe.

"This World Cup is going to be even better. We have youngsters who are hungry and willing to fight for their country coupled with experience.”

Pule’s friend and teammate Cyril Nzama shared the same sentiments with Radebe adding that Senegalese striker El Hadj Diouf could emerge as one of the stars of the 2002 World Cup.

"Diouf is a good player and he could be an inspiration to the Senegalese,” said Nzama. “We also have good players in our team the likes of Zuma, Jabu and Nomvete.”

"Pule has been marvelous and if he maintains his form I think everyone will be talking about Jabu Pule after the World Cup,” Nzama said.