Sono, whose club now campaigns in the third tier of South African football – the ABC Motsepe League, was speaking at the announcement of Cosmos’ new sponsor Jobe Foundation – a non-profit organization based in Duduza, Ekurhuleni.

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This will be Ezenkosi’s second season in the amateur ranks and Sono says he’s fully prepared to do it the original way of fighting their way back to the professional ranks.

"Ja, it's an easy route of buying a second division status for R10 million – it's very, very easy," said 'Bra J'.

"But have you got guarantees that you'll stay [in the division] with that R10 million you've bought with? Number two, I believe in myself; I believe in my talent; I believe I can take this team back without buying any other team.

"There's no guarantee, if you buy a club for R12 million, you can get relegated, and it's not only R12 million that you spend on the status, you still have to reinforce [the squad] and buy players to try make sure your R12 million investment is safe.

"So, we are talking maybe about plus-minus R15 million because there's a lot of add-ons of running a club as well, so those who can afford can do it.

"I believe I know this league now, and I didn't know it when I got relegated – it was a shock and we didn't expect it, but now we are ready to try and fight [our way] back."

Cosmos kick off their new season in the ABC Motsepe League Gauteng division this weekend, playing their home matches at Duduza Stadium.

Sono says it’s important that black businesses, especially in the township and rural areas, get behind their local clubs with financial support.

"What Jobe Foundation is doing is something incredible, and I think they are the leaders and they are also teaching our black business people and companies to support our own," he emphasised.

"I would say black companies must also get involved with CSI [Corporate Social Investment] – this is part of CSI, so I think they should get involved and try and help.

"We are not saying we want your millions, but the little you can contribute and add value to your community is very good."

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