Mokoena Seeks PSL Club, Draws Inspiration From Veterans
Lebogang Mokoena remains clubless but actively seeks a return to the Premier Soccer League (PSL). He finds inspiration in seasoned players like Vuyo Mere and Bernard Parker, who continue to perform at a high level at TS Galaxy.
Mokoena hasn’t played professionally since Moroka Swallows released him at the end of the 2021/22 season. The 37-year-old played a key role in Swallows’ promotion to the top flight in the 2019/20 season, alongside captain Mere.
The following season, Swallows finished an impressive sixth place, losing only two matches, neither of which were against Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, or Kaizer Chiefs. Notably, while they secured a commendable sixth position, they also set a record with 20 draws in that season.
“I’m still available and actively training,” Mokoena told Sportswire. “While I train independently, I’m eager to join a team seeking a player of my experience.
“Look at Vuyo, he’s still going strong at TS Galaxy, and Parker (also at Galaxy) continues to perform excellently,” Mokoena said, highlighting the continued success of older players.
Mokoena expressed his disappointment about leaving Swallows, where he was a regular in their first season back in the top league, making 28 league appearances. In his final season (2022), he started 17 out of 20 matches, but it wasn’t enough to secure a contract renewal.
“My departure from Swallows was disheartening,” Mokoena said. “I played a significant number of games in the first season and was still capable of contributing. It’s about opportunity. I believe I can add value by mentoring young players, as some teams lack the experience needed to compete and succeed.”
Mokoena’s professional journey began with Orlando Pirates in the 2003/04 season. He was part of the team that narrowly missed the league title the following season, losing to Kaizer Chiefs in the final hurdle. He later moved to Mamelodi Sundowns in the 2009/10 season, where he achieved significant success, winning two league titles, the Nedbank Cup, and the Carling Knockout trophy.
