Former Bafana Bafana stars Teko Modise believes outside influence may be the reason behind his distant relationship with Sipho Mbule.
Speaking on the iDiski Dine Podcast, Modise revealed that he has been approached more than once to mentor the talented midfielder.
But the connection has never materialised, and the talk has never happened.
“I have been asked to talk to Sipho for such a long time,” Modise said.
“Maybe because… we have the same talent.”
The former Bafana Bafana star claims even senior figures in football saw similarities between him and Mbule.
He recalled a conversation with former SuperSport United chairman Stan Matthews.
“He said to me, ‘After you at SuperSport we have the very same talent you had… this boy Sipho. Can you please talk to him?’”
A similar request came from Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Thlopie Motsepe when Sipho Mbule moved to Chloorkop.
Despite this, Teko Modise says he has kept his distance — and suspects there may be a reason.
“Maybe there are people who told Sipho that I have an issue with him,” he said.
Teko Modise maintains that Sipho Mbule has the talent to reach the top, but believes something is holding him back.
“I might sound like a hater, but for me… he’s been ‘bubbling under’ for so long,” he added.
The former midfielder insists Mbule still has the potential to become a top player — if he can unlock it.