Rulani Mokwena provides Peter Shalulile injury update ahead of Orlando Pirates clash

Peter Shalulile has been on the sidelines for almost three months, and his coach Rulani Mokwena has provided an update on his progress ahead of the Orlando Pirates clash.

Mamelodi Sundowns players were bucking down in the scorching heat at Chloorkop on Wednesday afternoon, and one of their trusted soldiers, Peter Shalulile, was spotted training with the team ahead of Friday’s highly anticipated tie.

Although it remains unclear whether Peter Shalulile will feature against Pirates, Sundowns coach Mokwena is optimistic as the Namibian international has been training with the rest of the squad for a week.

Shalulile, who was last seen in action on 1 October against Pirates at Orlando Stadium in an MTN8 semifinal first-leg clash, underwent surgery about three months ago after sustaining a muscular injury.

RULANI MOKWENA ON PETER SHALULILE’S INJURY

“Peter is now one week on the pitch on the green grass with the team,” Mokwena told the media.

“The protocol first is to return to training and return for availability for selection. So he has only gone past the first stage of rehabilitation.

“Everything depends on the individual, and how the biokineticist and physio and the player’s psychological reaction to the medical treatment. So we will see.

“But he has not played in friendly matches as yet, but he is now taking part in full training.”

Shalulile has been a mainstay at Sundowns since 2020. He has helped the club win several trophies, including two Premiership titles, the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.

In Sundowns’ colours, he has clinched two PSL Golden Boot awards, scoring 58 goals in 95 matches in all competitions.

Mokwena went on to say Shalulile is not entirely ruled out for the Pirates clash, but it remains a doubt.

“Peter is not out and not available, but he is training. We’ll assess and see that Peter is on the pitch, and wait for the medical green light,” he concluded.

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