Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula can breathe a sigh of relief after recovering from a recent health scare.
Makhaula was stretchered off on Saturday against Motsepe Foundation Championship side Hungry Lions FC in the Nedbank Cup Last 16 at Orlando Stadium.
Pirates went on to win the match 4-0 against a 10-man side. The Sea Robbers have since stated that Makhaula has recovered and is ready to start training. During this campaign, the 34-year-old has made 10 appearances in all competitions.
ORLANDO PIRATES STATEMENT ON MAKHEHLENE MAKHAULA
“Orlando Pirates can confirm that midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has been given the all-clear to resume training in the coming days, following his early withdrawal from the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 fixture against Hungry Lions at Orlando Stadium,” Pirates posted.
“The 34-year-old had to be stretchered off the field just before halftime on Saturday after complaining of chest pains and shortness of breath. He was treated by the Club’s medical team with assistance from the medics and promptly transferred to Milpark Hospital for further medical treatment.
“All necessary investigations have been conducted, and the player has since been discharged after consultation with a specialist. Makhaula is scheduled to return to training on Wednesday, following assessment from the Pirates Medical Team.”
WHAT MAKHAULA AND JOSE RIVEIRO SAID
Makhaula is not sure when he’ll return to action after he was ordered to rest. However, he insists that he’s ready to be back on the field.
“I have been ordered to rest and have been taking it easy. The coach and the team doctor will advise on how quickly I can rejoin the team. But I’m feeling 100% and ready to go,” said Makhaula.
On the other hand, when asked about when Makhula is likely to return to action; on Monday during the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals draw, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro stated that the Pirates star is in better shape than on Saturday, hoping he will start working from next week.
“He is alright. He scared us. It was a scary and difficult moment but in the end, it was not as bad as it looks. Hopefully, he will start working normally this week with the team,” said Riveiro
As things stand, Makhaula may feature for the Bucs in their next league encounter after the international break. The Happy People will face Sekhukhune United on Saturday, 30 March at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.
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