Heredia backs Mabokgwane to shine at Orlando Pirates

Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper coach Alexandro Heredia believes that Jackson Mabokgwane has what it takes to make the number one jersey at Bucs his own.

“I think Jackson is a tremendous goalkeeper. If he settles down, then he will get more and more game-time. When he gets more game-time, he will perform to his best,” Heredia told Goal.

Mabokgwane's last competitive outing for Bucs did not do him any good as he conceded a goal that helped Bloemfontein Celtic win 2-1 win prior to the mid-season break in December.

Heredia, who worked with Mabokgwane at Sundowns when he broke into the first team from the development academy, said he has what it takes to bounce back from that hiccup.

“Although, he did make a few mistakes here and there, but it was just as a result of a lack of confidence. But if he plays more games, he will recover from that set-back,” Heredia said.

Bucs currently boast four goalkeepers in their midst, and Heredia said the onus is on one of the three in Siyabonga Mpontshane, Brighton Mhlongo and Mabokgwane to make the jersey their own.

“The level of competition at Pirates is very good. He is competing with very good goalkeepers. They are not afraid of competing with one another because they want to do well,” he added.

“Brighton is doing well. Mpontshane is an exceptional goalkeeper. If one of the three can settle down properly, then they will have a very good season at the club,” Heredia concluded.