In this instalment of In The Spotlight, readers get to know a whole lot about Phelelani Mpangase as he reveals the former English Premier League star who gave him his current nickname... and more.
Growing up, who was your idol?
"I had two idols. At first, it was Lucas Radebe because of how he played, his discipline, his ability to command from the back, and the way he led by example. However, I lost track of him when he moved abroad as we didn’t have DStv back then, growing up in a disadvantaged background.
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"I eventually settled on my former teammate at Sundowns and Platinum Stars, Mbulelo Mabizela."
Did you model your game on them?
"Growing up, while I was playing football, people started calling me 'OJ' because I had dreadlocks. However, I had to ditch that nickname when I joined Sundowns, as Peter Ndlovu suggested I call myself 'JJ'."
What is your favourite team?
"Sundowns."
Who is your best friend in football?
"Thabo September. When I joined SuperSport, he gave me the warmest welcome. We were neighbours in Joburg, and we would sometimes use each other's cars. He was like a brother to me."
Who is your favourite player in SA?
"Themba Zwane. He's been consistent since his days at Mpumalanga Black Aces, and his form has never dropped."
If you could join any club right now as a player...
"Of course, Sundowns. Signing for them without having to trial showed how much they valued my talent."
Is there anything you dislike about the game?
"I dislike the VAR technology. It delays the intensity of the game too much. Supporters have to wait four minutes before they can celebrate a goal, and it’s killing the game."
