Football Manager, Bobby Motaung described Thabang Lebese as a ‘jolly fellow’ following his passing on Wednesday evening.

Lebese featured 220 times for the Glamour Boys joined the Club back in 1993 as a youngster and went on to represent South Africa at junior and senior level.

“Thabang Lebese was brought to Kaizer Chiefs by Bra Sam (Motaung). He discovered him playing football in the streets of Orlando. I worked with him while I was still a Team Manager with then Coach, Phillip Trouser as a coach. He played with the likes of Doctor Khumalo, Lucas Radebe, Neil Tovey, Thabo Mooki, Shakes Khungwane, Brian Baloyi, and young Jabu Pule (now known as Mahlangu).

“It was under the tutelage of then Coach, Paul Dolezer that Thabang’s career really flourished. He won cups here and left a legacy. Thabang a jolly character, very naughty there was no dull moment when he was around.

“He made his choices in life like when he left the Club to join Orlando Pirates back in 2001 via Ria Stars. We did not stand in his way as he wanted to move. We will remember him as someone who played an immense role in the development of football in South Africa.

“I would like on behalf of Kaizer Chiefs sent our deepest sympathy to his family and friends,” added the visible devastated Motaung speaking to kaizerchiefs.com on Thursday afternoon.

Funeral details will be communicated in due course.