Benni McCarthy of Orlando Pirates wins the Striker of the Tournament during the 2011 Telkom Knockout Awards
Orlando Pirates striker Benni McCarthy says people should not be surprised by the praise his teammates are giving him, saying he is “just one of the boys”.
The former Ajax Amsterdam, FC Porto and Blackburn Rovers star received his first individual honour since returning home when he was awarded the striker of the tournament for the 2011 Telkom Knockout.
Speaking after receiving the accolade, the 34-year-old admitted he did not expect to win anything in his first season back in the top flight, but now that he has, he credits the award to his teammates.
“No, I didn’t expect to win anything, not even a Telkom Cup, not even the MTN8 because I just thought it was new players in a new environment and it was going to be difficult,” McCarthy said.
“But I adapted myself quickly and the players accepted me in the group as one of them and that always helps. For that I am very grateful and so blessed I have such quality teammates with great hearts who welcomed me with open arms,” said McCarthy.
And while the Buccaneers striker is R100 000 richer, he is adamant that no amount of money can buy the team spirit and unity they have at the club this season.
Moreover, despite that his colleagues are continuously heaping praise on him, McCarthy adds that he does not act more superior than his teammates because of his previous success in Europe.
“No amount of money can buy what we have at Pirates, the team spirit, and it just shows that even though I played in Europe and achieved what I have achieved, to them I am just one of the boys.
“I’m as humble as possible and I don’t boss anyone around, and even sometimes the young players ask me to bring them a cool-drink and I’ll do it and they look shocked that I go and fetch their boots for them or bring their shirt.
“That is the kind of relationship we have – so I don’t think it should be that surprising to people if players to say that I make a difference in the team, because we are all humble and treat each other exactly the same.”
Brian Lee, follow on Twitter @BrianLeeSA