Staff Reporter.
Orlando Pirates co-coach Mandla Ncikazi has confirmed the return of Ben Motshwari and Gabadinho Mhango ahead of the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium.
Mhango and Motshwari have been missing in action for Pirates for the past few weeks due to disciplinary issues.
Motshwari was arrested following allegations of domestic violence before the charges were later withdrawn, while Mhango made headlines for a nightclub incident.
Ncikazi has however assured the fans that both players are back in training and fighting hard for a place in the team’s starting line-up.
“They are back with the team, they are training with the team and both hope they can make it to the final 18, or final 20,” Ncikazi said.
“I wouldn’t want to dwell too much on what has happened. I just want to concentrate on their current status at the club.
“We hope they can continue to add value to the club.
“They are both good players who have been part of this team for a long time.
“I am just praying their fitness gets to the right levels quickly because not only for this derby, but going forward there is a stage in December where there will be match after match.
“If we can’t use them in the derby, then we need them to be ready for the tight fixture schedule we are going to need to get through.”
Pirates are set to be without the services of Happy Jele, Thembinkosi Lorch and Innocent Maela for Saturday’s clash through injury.