Teko Modise has expressed his delight with the re-union with Brazilian coach Carlos Alberto Parreira ahead of the two friendlies against Japan and Jamaica.

Parreira is the one who brought the Orlando Pirates midfielder into Bafana Bafana for the first time, replacing Papi Zothwane in the 3-1 loss to Zambia on September 2007.

He told the club's official website: "Without taking anything away from the previous national coach (Joel Santana), it feels very good to work with Carlos Alberto Parreira once again because he knows and understands my strengths and weaknesses much better, and that's why I really believe he will definitely get the best out me at international level.

"Our first training session went well, everyone was working very hard and the mood is very positive in camp. It's also good to have the 'Big Boy' Benni (McCarthy) in camp. He is still the same funny, but hard working player, and hopes to assist the team get back to winning ways. He is definitely an extra boost in the squad."

Modise also gave some advice to the three Under-20 players Kermit Erasmus, Darren Keet and Daylon Classen along with the in-form Daine Klate, who have been called up for the matches.

"Congratulations are in order for Daine Klate, Kermit Erasmus and Daylon Classen on their selection. They really deserved their call-ups after doing so well for their respective clubs. My humble advice is that they shouldn't surrender to pressure at international stage.

"However, Parreira is the kind of coach who supports and believes in his players. So, I just hope the trio use their opportunity well if they get a chance to play against either Japan or Jamaica."

The 26-year-old has come in for a lot of critism for his poor form of late that has seen Bucs coach Ruud Krol benching him, which he is taking like a man.

He said: "There is nothing wrong to start on the bench or not to play at all for whatever reason. What's important is that we communicate a lot like father and son with the coach and I will always respect his decisions

"He is a very experienced coach having played at the highest professional level, so, he knows what he is doing it's for the best for my career and for the team, also hoping to get my hunger for action back as soon as possible

"I just hope people can understand that every player has ups and downs sometime in the course of his career, and I am no different. I am always offering my best for the club when I play and this has remained the same since I debuted in the Pirates colours two seasons ago.

"But, as a normal human being, my body can only carry me to a certain extent. Hence, I am very grateful to the coach and everyone who is supporting me at this time."