Mamelodi Sundowns' George Lebese puts emotions on hold for Kaizer Chiefs reunion

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder George Lebese has put his personal feelings aside heading into their next match against his former team Kaizer Chiefs.

The Brazilians will face the Amakhosi in a crucial Absa Premiership encounter on Tuesday evening at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, where kick-off is scheduled for 19h30.

Having spent nine years at Naturena, before moving over to Chloorkop in the recent transfer window, Lebese will face his old teammates for the first time.

However, the 28-year-old has taken a professional stance in managing his emotions and placing the interests of his new team at the forefront.

“Personally, for me, it’s just three points for us as a team, and it will take us where we want to be,” said Lebese.

“I’m not looking to take the game personally. It’s not for me but for the club, the players and the technical team.”

Lebese revealed he has avoided chatting to his friends at Chiefs for the past fortnight.

“It is possible for me to put everything aside, and then I'll catch up with everything after the 90 minutes. I’ve been avoiding talking to them [former Chiefs teammates] for the past two weeks, that’s how crucial this game is. So I’ll definitely speak to them after the match.”

It is common practice for players to refrain from celebrating when scoring against their ex-employers out of respect, but ‘Geeza’ says he will not be reserved should he find the back of the net tomorrow.

“I respect Kaizer Chiefs, they’re a big brand, they’ve taught me everything. But at the end of the day it’s entertainment.

“It’s about me and where I am right now, I’m in a happy place. So if I score, why not [celebrate]?"