SuperSport United captain Onismor Bhasera pursuing coaching badges

The 38 year-old has not yet indicated when and if he will retire in the coming months, but this is one way of slowly preparing for life after football.

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Bhasera, who has played for Kaizer Chiefs, Bidvest Wits and has over a 100 appearances for SuperSport, explained the decision to SABC Sport.

''Trying to transition from playing into coaching, doing it for the future. So I have started working on my badges. I was happy with the first one - looking forward to the next one,'' said Bhasera.

The left back adds that he has received support from both the club and his family as he winds down his career.

''It's been a long journey, again I wanna thank the man above for keeping me strong - the family has also been very supportive.

''Want to give myself a thumbs up for all the hard work, keeping myself strong and still working very hard,'' added Bhasera.

Despite his age and the influx of young players coming through the SuperSport ranks, Bhasera continues to be a regular under coach Gavin Hunt when the majority thought he would be slowing down.

The ex-Zimbabwe international suggests he works just as hard as the kids in training.

''If you still got it in the tank, it's all about working hard. When you get a chance grab it with both hands and give it your all,'' he concluded.

Bhasera is one of a handful of elder statesman in the DStv Premiership having first arrived in South Africa two decades ago to join Tembisa Classic.

He puts it down to self-discipline.

Bhasera will be hoping to guide SuperSport to a trophy this season after progressing to the Nedbank Cup round of 16 where they will face Richards Bay next month.

He insists silverware remains a priority for the Tshwane side.