Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has provided an update on defender Olisa Ndah and four others ahead of the Nedbank Cup Last 16 clash on Saturday.
Ndah had to pulled out of the Soweto Derby after picking up a knock in that pulsating 3-2 win over Kaizer Chiefs.
The Nigeria international is regaining his form at the back as the Buccaneers approach the business end of the season.
The Bucs host Motsepe Foundation Championship side Hungry Lions as they fight to retain the cup title.
WHICH PLAYERS DID JOSE RIVEIRO RULE OUT
Riveiro is planning his onslaught without new signing Thabiso Lebitso, who faces suspension after receiving a yellow card on Saturday.
The former Chippa United fullback, who opened his scoring account in spectacular fashion in the derby, accumulated the other three yellow cards while playing for his former club.
Another right-back, Bandile Shandu, is still out nursing an injury alongside another man, Paseka Mako, who previously commanded a starting place on the left side of the back line. Bafana Bafana striker Evidence Makgopa, who was riding on the crest of a wave after a positive AFCON outing, is also out battling with injury.
“It [injuries] didn’t change so much. The situation with Evidence Makgopa, Paseka Mako, Bandile Shandu…,” Riveiro told journalists at the Nedbank Cup press conference.
“Now we have the suspension of Thabiso Lebitso, he came to the team with three yellow cards from Chippa, and the fourth was against Kaizer Chiefs, he won’t be part of the game and that’s all in terms of casualties and little injuries.”
He further revealed that Ndah’s substitution against Chiefs was because of a minor knock. The Super Eagles will be in contention for a starting place.
“Everybody else is available for the match, Olisa Ndah? He’s fine, it was something minor, so luckily he is ready to compete again.”
In Lebitso’s absence, Riveiro is likely to throw in Thabiso Monyane into the fray while Deon Hotto could start at left wingback.
Ndah will once again partner with Tapelo Xoki in central defence. Upfront, Tshegofatso Mabasa could get the nod with Makgopa still out.
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