BATTLES between Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs are often a tasty affair.
But there will be added spice in the upcoming Absa Premiership fixture as George Lebese faces his former side for the first time since his much-publicised transfer from Amakhosi to home town club Sundowns.
For the first time in his PSL career, Lebese will play for the opposite side in a Chiefs match when Amakhosi visit rivals Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld tomorrow (7.30pm).
The 28-year-old winger admits it will feel “strange”, acknowledging the role Amakhosi have played in his growth as a player.“I respect Kaizer Chiefs. They are a big brand and they taught me everything,” said Lebese.
“But it’s about where I am now. It feels weird and it had to sink in that I am with Sundowns. I had to work my way up and catch up to great players here.”
History shows there are rarely happy returns for players after high-profile and sometimes controversial moves. Chiefs fans will, without doubt, let Lebese know what they think of him now that he wears a different jersey.
And there is still pressure on him to deliver as he works to find his feet in the Downs setup. This could well be the big occasion he needs to finally announce his arrival.
Booted from the Caf Champions League, the Brazilians will be looking to make it up to their supporters with success in domestic competitions.
“Guys didn’t take the Caf exit well because they had expectations of reaching the final,” Lebese said.
“I was also disappointed, as I was really looking forward to winning the Champions League. Hopefully the experience will benefit the team.”
They are fifth in the Absa Premiership standings with nine points, three games short of log leaders Baroka FC with 15 points.
But they are also equal on points with Chiefs, who have played three matches more than them.
