Orlando Pirates’ Medical Team has provided an update on two notable absentees from the First Team’s recent match day squad, along with several other squad members recovering from injury.
Thembinkosi Lorch and Tapelo Xoki both sat out the Buccaneers’ 2-1 league win at home to Cape Town City over the weekend, with the defender not recovering in time for the clash after picking up a knock deep inside extra time during the marathon cup encounter against Dondol Stars in Polokwane. Meanwhile, the attacking midfielder was not considered for selection following a minor knock picked up in the build-up to the fixture at Orlando Stadium.
According to the medical team, Xoki is likely to be fit for selection ahead of Sunday’s league game away to TS Galaxy, having returned to full training after suffering a head injury.
Lorch, on the other hand, remains a doubtful starter for the clash in Mbombela and continues to be monitored, having picked up a knock to his hip.
Four more First Team players have recently been discharged from the injury list and are back training fully with their teammates.
Right-backs Bandile Shandu and Craig Martin are back to provide more depth in defence after recovering from illness and a slight knock, respectively. Both have recently resumed full training along with goalkeeper Richard Ofori and striker Bienvenu Eva Nga.
Meanwhile, Vincent Pule and striker Ndumiso Mabena are expected to be back at full training during the course of the week after both were sidelined by knee injuries.
Also on the mend is midfielder Goodman Mosele, who has started light training but remains under rehab, while defender Olisa Ndah is still side-lined with a knee injury.
Pirates are currently third in the DStv Premiership standings, and could jump up to second should they defeat Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday. Kick-off is at 15:00.
