Relebohile Mofokeng believes Orlando Pirates teenage sensation Mpho Padime has even greater talent than he did, but insists the youngster must switch his mentality to fulfil his potential.

Mofokeng wore the No. 38 jersey during his time with the Buccaneers before securing a move to Belgian outfit Royal Union Saint-Gilloise.

After Mofokeng’s departure, the number 38 jersey has been passed down to teen sensation Padime, who was given the jersey at the start of the season.

Padime revealed the significance behind his decision to wear the number 38 jersey after speaking to Mofokeng about the shirt. Mofokeng recalled their conversation, admitting he initially questioned why Padime felt the number should have been retired.

“He called me that day and told me he’s going to wear number 38, then I asked him what’s the big deal with number 38 and he said he felt they should have retired it,” Mofokeng told SuperSport.

Mofokeng has played down suggestions that his iconic number 38 jersey should have been retired, insisting that Padime can surpass what he achieved at the club.

“Then I asked him why would they retire it because it’s not like I did something wow. I played well and had a good career at Pirates, and you can even surpass it, so why retire the jersey.

The former Pirates star has backed Padime to achieve even greater things at the club, insisting the youngster possesses more talent than he did.

“He said I did a lot of things so I told him with his talent he can even do better. He has a lot of talent, even better than mine, but his mentality has to switch.”

Mofokeng has challenged Padime to add more goals and assists to his game as he continues his development.

“He must work to get goals and assists. I think everything will be okay. Yes, he’s going to be a top talent,” he concluded.