Former Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates captain Mbulelo ‘OJ’ Mabizela has shed light on the disciplinary issues which led to the downfall of his career.

The 37-year-old was one of the finest prospects to emerge from South Africa after he was snapped up by Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur after their pre-season tour of the country in 2002.

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The move failed to garner greener pastures for Mabizela, whose contract with Spurs was terminated by mutual agreement following several misdemeanours, which included being AWOL and missing training sessions.

‘I got all the support that I needed overseas, I won’t lie. I had my mistakes, I am only human after all,’ the former Mamelodi Sundowns defender told SAFM.

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‘The honest truth is [that] I was ill-disciplined, and it has cost me not only in Europe but also around SA,’ Mabizela added.

‘My discipline has always been an issue – I can’t run away from it, it is the honest truth.

‘There was a lot that happened, a lot was expected, and I didn’t live up to the expectations,’ he concluded.

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The former national team skipper enjoyed stints with AmaZulu, Bidvest Wits, Mpumalanga Black Aces and Norwegian side Valerenga to mention a few of his clubs.

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Despite his off-the-field troubles, Mabizela amassed a respectable 45 caps for Bafana Bafana.

Photo: Gallo Images