Staff Reporter.
Orlando Pirates have given an in-depth injury update on the senior team players ahead of the DSTV premiership clash against TS Galaxy on Sunday.
“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,” Pirates announced in a club statement.
Thapelo Xoki and Thembinkosi Lorch both sat out during Pirates’ 2-1 league win at home to Cape Town City over the weekend
Xoki picked up a knock during extra time in the Nedbank Cup quarterfinal tie against Dondol Stars in Polokwane.
Lorch was ruled out due to a minor knock picked up in the build-up to the City 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 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.”
Coach Jose Riveiro will have four more first-teamers available. They have recently been discharged from the injury list and are back training fully with their teammates.
Goodman Mosele and Olisa Ndah remain sidelined, while four other players have returned to be in contention.
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.
Pirates have won 14 games in the league, drawn four while losing eight times in 26 games.
The Soweto giants could jump up to second in the DSTV premiership table, should they defeat Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday.
Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.