Meshack Motloung

Meshack Motloung

Condolences for hard-tackling former Moroka Swallows and Bafana Bafana defender Jacob "Bobo" Lekgetho, who died this week at a Lenasia private hospital, are pouring in and soccer people are heartbroken over the loss of this talented player.

Some of the people Sowetan spoke to were taken aback by Lekgetho's death.

Orlando Pirates communications manager Mickey Modisane said: From Orlando Pirates, our deepest sympathy to his family and he will be missed by the entire football fraternity.

"We cannot forget his contribution for us to qualify for the Korea/Japan World Cup. He was an asset to the nation if one looks at a number of caps he got. That demonstrates his tenacity, football know-how, determination.

"There are few South African players who played in Russia and made a mark and Lekgetho was one of the them."

Kaizer Chiefs public relations manager Siya Makunga said: "What a loss to South African football.

"One really wonders who can replace a player of Lekgetho's calibre.

"There's nobody to replace him. Death has robbed us of a great talent and we hope that the family will overcome the loss."

Ajax Cape Town spokesman Thabiso Mekuto said: "This is a sad moment for South Africa and also a great loss to the country at large. The youngsters have lost a role model in Lekgetho who was a quality player .

"I knew him when he played for Hellenic. It is time that the football our football leaders pay respect to players of yesteryear."

Safa Soweto president Phil Mogodi said Lekgetho' s death has come as a shock to his association.

"He used to assist youngsters at Safa Soweto and nurtured a number of players. He will be remembered not only by his family, but by the whole football fraternity as well."

AmaZulu spokesman Philani Mabaso said: "That is one of the saddest things to have happened to us. Lekgetho died at a very young age. But there's nothing we can say but to pass our condolences to the family."

Platinum Stars manager Thamaga Mokgophi said: "Lekgetho's sudden death has come as shock to me. The youngster worked very hard to achieve his goals. It's a pity that we have to lose such a talented player."

Bidvest Wits administrative manager George Mogotsi said: "He was one of the best leftbacks in the country, and to lose such talent is very sad. But we believe it is God's will."

SuperSport United's spokesman David "Mazolman" Skhosana said: "He was still young, and among the best defenders in the country. We send our sincere condolences to his family."

Lekgetho will be buried next Saturday in Soweto.