This was evident in their opening Betway Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs in Bloemfontein at the weekend, when eight players in the starting line-up were over the age of 30.

Malesela explained to SABC Sport why it was important to include the PSL veterans in his roster for the 2024/25 campaign.

"One thing I don't like doing is to discriminate – if that's the right word – because of age. We like retiring people when they can still offer something," said Malesela.

"And my belief, because it comes from my playing days, is that I helped to promote so many players because of my experience, and I believe a lot of these experienced players that have been around can help.

"That's why I have them, they are my guard, they are my help towards getting the team right. Even in situations where there's ill-discipline, a lot of them are helping me because I cannot be on guard.

"There are clubs at which I used to go to nightclubs at 1am or 2am, just to get players out of the nightclub because we have a match during the week, and people are clubbing on Sunday. Now I've wisened up, and I'm fine now."

With senior statesmen, such as Daniel Akpeyi, Washington Arubi, Joseph Molangoane, Trevor Mathiane, Xola Mlambo, and Edgar Manaka, dominating his squad, Malesela insists there’s room for young players too.

"I'm a big fan of unearthing talent because that's one thing I take pride in, and I have unearthed so, so, so many players – some of whom are here and some are overseas," he added.

"So I will not stop admiring younger players. We are actually closed for signings, but I cannot close doors on young players, I cannot do that."

READ: Referees not up to scratch for the season – Dan Malesela

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