Orlando Pirates have provided an injury update on Thembinkosi Lorch and Tapelo Xoki ahead of the crucial DStv Premiership clash against TS Galaxy on Sunday, 30th of April.
Pirates are in a tight contest to finish runners-up behind recently crowned PSL champions Mamelodi Sundowns. A second-place finish would see them qualify for next season’s CAF Champions League alongside Sundowns.
The Buccaneers are vying for the Champions League spot with Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United.
Pirates have won 14 games in the league, drawn four while losing eight times in 26 games.
The Soweto giants missed Lorch and Xoki in their last game against Cape Town City. The club has since provided an update on the availability of the players.
PIRATES INJURY UPDATE ON KEY PLAYERS
“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.
Xiki 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.
There is good news on Xoki and a gloomy update on Lorch. “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.”
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.
SHANDU AND MARTIN RETURN
Right-backs Bandile Shandu and Craig Martin return to provide more depth in defence. They recovered from illness and a slight knock, respectively.
“Both have recently resumed full training along with goalkeeper Richard Ofori and striker Bienvenu Eva Nga.
“Vincent Pule and striker Ndumiso Mabena are expected to be back at full training during the course of the week. Both were sidelined by knee injuries.
“Also on the mend is midfielder Goodman Mosele, who has started light training but remains under rehab. Defender Olisa Ndah is still sidelined with a knee injury.”
Pirates are currently third in the DStv Premiership standings. They could jump up to second should they defeat Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday. Kick-off is at 15:00.”
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