Bongani Zungu has apologised for claiming that assistant coach Rulani Mokwena was the brains behind Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates’ success.

The Bafana Bafana international took to social media and caused an uproar in the aftermath of the Soweto giants’ Absa Premiership victory against Polokwane City, sharing his adoration for Mokwena.

Zungu’s sentiments were not well-received by the masses, with many, including Cape Town City coach Benni McCarthy, claiming that he was being disrespectful.

The Amiens midfielder took to Twitter to publicise his apology, stating that he did not mean to undermine anyone.

‘I believe it is only appropriate that I address how my previous tweet‚ which I have since deleted‚ and some of the comments were received.

‘It is important that I mentioned that at that moment‚ my comments were merely meant to show support‚ not only towards coach Rulani‚ but moreover towards a club I grew up supporting and wanted to share my excitement in their recent results.

‘But I do understand why they were misinterpreted and would like to assure you that that was not my intention.

‘I would like to apologise to all those who found them offensive.

‘As I said‚ my intention was not to undermine the immense contribution that coach Micho [Milutin Sredojevic] and the rest of the staff have made towards the club’s recent [progress].

‘Regardless I am aware of why they could be interpreted as insensitive and I take full responsibility and again sincerely apologise to those who found them offensive and disrespectful,’ he concluded.

Photo: Gallo Images