Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena was pleased to have achieved his target of playing “regular football” and “performing well” after winning top honours at the PSL awards.

The 26-year-old was named as the DStv Premiership Midfielder of the Season as well as the Footballer of the Season.

The Bafana Bafana midfielder played a key role in helping Sundowns claim their sixth straight DStv Premiership title and contribute to two goals and two assists in 38 appearances across all competitions.

Mokoena is confident his side will come back even stronger in the new season and is grateful for the guidance of coach Rulani Mokwena as well as his teammates for his and the club’s success this season.

“Firstly I would like to thank everyone at the club, the supporters, the players, the technical team, the Motsepe family, my family and the coaches that voted for me,” Mokoena told his club’s official website.

“I’m very happy to win the awards. I am the testimony of hard work. Hard work pays off and I am the definition of answered prayers.

“Coach Rulani has reminded me throughout the season that my job is to protect the defence so that we concede fewer goals as a team. I did a lot of work with the Coach. I started being interested in Rodri Hernandez and watching Manchester City as well as how he moves and defends”, said Teboho as he disclosed how Coach Rulani Mokwena has influenced his growth and interests.

Mokoena, who was named Footballer of the Season, says he is proud of himself for helping the club clinch silverware this campaign but is equally proud of his teammates for winning individual accolades.

“I will always do the dirty work for the team, score, and assist when needed, but I know there are players that will do that. My job is to protect the team and defend because I know that the players in front of me will score,” he added.

“My target for this season was to play regularly and perform well.”

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