Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane responded with a heartfelt message after a picture of his former player Khayelihle Shozi appeared on social media.
The 28-year-old Shozi came through the ranks at Sundowns, but while he was promoted to the first team almost a decade ago, he never played a league game for the Brazilians.
Instead, he was sent out on loan to a number of teams, to SuperSport United, Black Leopards and Richards Bay.
He would also turn out for TS Galaxy and JDR Stars before he first disappeared.
The player first went missing towards the end of October 2021, disappearing without a trace, while he was plying his trade at GladAfrica Championship side JDR Stars.
However, in January 2022 he was found on the streets, digging in rubbish bins, and living under a bridge – with his brother later confirming that he has mental problems.
A new picture of Shozi in a bad state has now appeared on social media and also motivated his former coach Mosimane to share some heartfelt words about his former player.
“Very sad to see this image,” Mosimane commented on social media.
“His combination with Percy Tau was amazing. We even promoted him to the Senior Team ahead of Percy.
“He came through the same development program, like Pitso [Mkhulise], Keletso [Makgalwa], Promise [Mkhuma], etc. Cassius [Mailula] (debut in preseason Zambia July 2019). Special talent!”
