Orlando Pirates head of development Augusto Palacios believes that Happy Jele’s discipline and commitment to the game are the driving forces behind him reaching 200 appearances for the Buccaneers in the Absa Premiership.

The defender, who arrived at Mayfair in 2006, has established himself from a youngster in the squad to a vital component of the team. Twelve years on and Jele celebrated his 200th appearance in the league when the Buccaneers beat Bloemfontein Celtic 2-1 at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.

Palacios revealed that he realised Jele’s talent from the first day the player arrived at Pirates.

‘When Happy Jele joined us, he never played a single game. It was the first time I knew exactly [who] Happy Jele [was], and from that time to now he is keeping the [same] discipline. He is keeping the commitment and he is keeping the full knowledge that he knows,’ said Palacios.

‘I mean for him to have the 200 appearances… it’s a very good achievement to play for Orlando Pirates, very good achievement. Especially [if] you know [how] to be a centre back, right back, to be the captain of the team, to winning the league; congratulations to him.’

The Pirates development coach then pointed out Jele’s commitment as a determining factor.

‘But it is because of his commitment, dedication and even when he suffered an injury, he never complained. When he came back, he never made any politics, any wrong or asked why he was not playing.

‘He is working very hard, likes to correct his mistakes. He waited for the opportunity and more important, he is consistent. I think for him to have Orlando Pirates as his first professional team and making 200 appearances is a good achievement.’

Palacios believes that the defender’s lifestyle mirrors that of teammate Lucky Lekgwathi.

‘You see he’s got [a] good private life, he is the same as Lucky Lekgwathi. It all depends on the player; when are you sleeping, what are you eating, why are you eating, are you keeping your private life away from parties and are you staying away from drinking? If you keep your private life good you can play more years like Lucky Lekgwathi. If he can keep all these things he can still go four, five seasons.’

The Sea Robbers will next be in action when they travel to take on SuperSport United at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Wednesday at 19:30.

Photo: Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix