The 29-year-old recently parted ways with Pirates after an inconsistent final chapter at the club and a loan spell that helped revive his season.

Mabasa found opportunities limited under former Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and struggled for regular game-time during the first half of the campaign. Before securing a temporary move away, the striker managed just five league appearances and scored once.

Seeking more minutes and consistency, Mabasa joined Stellenbosch FC on loan for the final six months of the season.

The move proved beneficial.

Under Gavin Hunt, the experienced forward featured in 12 league matches and scored four goals as he rebuilt momentum and reminded many of his qualities in front of goal.

During his difficult spell at Pirates and subsequent revival at Stellenbosch, rumours emerged suggesting Mabasa could make the controversial switch across Soweto and join Chiefs.

However, the striker insists he never allowed transfer talk to distract him from his responsibilities on the pitch.

Speaking on Soccerbeat with Lebohang ‘Cheeseboy’ Mokoena, Mabasa explained his approach.

“Like I tell you, I’m a professional first. I love my job, I care about my job, and I had a job to do at that certain time. So, I wasn’t really bothered by everything that I hear in the media, this and this and this,” said Mabasa.

The former Pirates forward admitted that protecting his mentality has become an important part of his game, and says confidence has been a key factor behind his performances.

“I try to keep such a huge distance between myself and that because I don’t want it to affect me at the end of the day. I have a job to do and I have to be ready at all times,” he added.

“I’m one player that plays on confidence. If my mind is right, everything is right. I’ll excel. So, I stayed in my little box and ignored all the noise around me.”

As he moves into the next chapter of his career, Mabasa will be aiming to translate that regained confidence into sustained form and secure his long-term future at a new club.

Thulani Hlatshwayo credits Gavin Hunt and SuperSport United for career revival