Vila dedicates jersey number to fallen hero
The 31-year-old has also returned to training.
Mamelodi Sundowns forward Sibusiso Vilakazi has returned to training following a long-term injury.
Many fans were worried about Vilakazi’s future at the club when new-signing Kermit Erasmus was given the number 11 jersey which was previously worn by Vila.
Last week, the Soweto-born player took some time and explained why he changed his number to 24.
“I wanted to change before the end of the season and for me, it was to honour my idol, Kobe Bryant. He passed away and I felt like I should use his number and relive his memories even though he did everything on the basketball court and my side I want to replicate that on the soccer field,” Vila said in a statement.
READ MORE: Family searches for missing Mamelodi man
“He was my inspiration. I remember when he passed on I almost broke down in tears as he was someone I looked up to. It felt like I had lost someone close to me. He has had an impact on my sporting career as I could relate to some of the things he went through, such as being injured and winning championships. You know: having an injury and coming back as if nothing happened.”
Vilakazi is currently on the mend as he was injured during a clash against Baroka FC.
He has started light training again and is expected to feature as Downs look to defend their PSL title.
“The recovery is going well as I am on the mend. In football, you do not have time as you are playing at a high level and there are quality players who are ready to fill the space. That space is small because of the players that are around. We tend to think we have time, whereas we don’t. These days you get injured and you must work harder to get back into the team,” said Vilakazi.
The former Bidvest Wits skipper signed for the Brazilians back in 2016, and has gone on to win three Absa Premierships and other accolades.
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