Former Orlando Pirates attacking midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi has revealed the influence Teko Modise had on his football career, explaining how the former Bafana Bafana star inspired him both on and off the pitch.

Maswanganyi has described Modise as his football idol, admitting that he spent much of his younger years trying to copy the former midfielder's playing style, appearance and personality. The 28-year-old believes Modise played an important role in shaping the person and footballer he wanted to become.

The former Pirates star recently joined Bahraini club Al Khaldiya SC, based in Northern Riffa, where he has started his new chapter in football. He has already featured in four matches for the club as he looks to establish himself in his new environment.

Speaking during an interview with the South African Football Journalists’ Association (SAFJA) on Monday, Maswanganyi opened up about his admiration for Modise and explained how watching him play influenced his own development.

The attacking midfielder said he immediately connected with Modise when he watched him during his playing days. He admired the way the former Bafana Bafana international controlled games, expressed himself on the ball and carried himself on the pitch.

Maswanganyi admitted that he always imagined himself playing in a similar way and tried to incorporate some of Modise's qualities into his own game.

However, the influence was not limited to football. The midfielder revealed that Modise also inspired his hairstyle during his younger years.

He explained that he noticed Modise wearing dreadlocks and wanted to have a similar appearance. However, instead of choosing dreadlocks, he decided to wear braids because he preferred that particular style.

Maswanganyi admitted that he had never previously shared that personal detail about how Modise influenced his appearance.

For him, the former midfielder was someone he could identify with, not only because of his footballing ability but also because of his confidence and personality.

He also spoke about admiring the way Modise dresses, communicates and presents himself away from football. According to Maswanganyi, these qualities made the former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns star someone he always wanted to meet.

The 28-year-old revealed that he has since had the opportunity to meet his idol, something that clearly meant a lot to him.

Modise enjoyed a successful career in South African football, representing several clubs, including Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. He also became an important figure for Bafana Bafana and earned recognition for his technical ability and creativity in midfield.

Maswanganyi has now explained just how much the former midfielder influenced his journey, showing that his admiration goes beyond what Modise achieved on the football pitch.

As he continues his career in Bahrain with Al Khaldiya SC, the former Pirates playmaker will hope to build his own identity in football while carrying some of the inspiration he received from one of his childhood heroes.

Source: FARPost