Orlando Pirates players celebrate a goal - Photo Courtesy Pirates Media.
Orlando Pirates have welcomed the return of seven players from injury saying it is a boost to their CAF Champions League campaign, which demands depth and quality. However, three other players remain injured.
The Soweto giants, who started the continental league with an away 2-1 win over Algeria’s CR Belouizdad on Tuesday, have confirmed the return of centre-backs Tapelo Xoki, Sandile Mthethwa, Deano Van Rooyen, midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula, right-back Thabiso Lebitso, attacking midfielder Thuso Moleleki and goalkeeper Ethan Visagie.
A statement published on www.orlandopiratesfc.com, says coach Jose Riveiro needs all his players at his disposal to manage the demands of competing in Africa and locally.
“The Buccaneers [Pirates] are also focusing on ensuring their squad is fully fit for the demanding schedule ahead. Jose Riveiro and his technical team will need every player available during this intense period,” read part of the statement.
Pirates lead the Betway Premiership race, three points ahead of holders Mamelodi Sundowns and they have to also focus on the Champions League. The 1995 continental champions have admitted that juggling local and international fixtures was tough.
The statement adds: “It is a challenging schedule by any standard, but there is some encouraging news from the Bucs’ medical department…a crucial boost as the team navigates this testing phase of the season.”
However, coach Riveiro is still without top South African striker Zakhele Lepasa, Nigerian defender Olisah Ndah and home-grown midfielder Goodman Mosele who are recovering from leg injuries. Lepasa and Mosele suffered ankle and knee injuries respectively.
The Nigerian suffered a tibia fracture in September in a 3-0 win over Polokwane City at Orlando Stadium and went on to miss the Buccaneers’ march to the MTN8 title retention
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