Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has given another update on Monnapule Saleng and Olisa Ndah ahead of the MTN8 final on Saturday.
The duo missed last week’s clash against Richards Bay FC, nursing injuries they sustained in their encounter against Polokwane City FC.
Gilberto stepped in for Saleng, while captain Innocent Maela took over Ndah’s role.
Coach Riveiro previously indicated that the availability of the two players for the upcoming MTN8 final against Stellenbosch FC was uncertain.
In a pre-match press conference held in Durban on Thursday, Ncikazi stated that Saleng and Ndah have not participated in training for several days and are currently undergoing late fitness assessments in the medical room.
MONNAPULE SALENG AND OLISA NDAH UNDERGOING LATE FITNESS TEST
“Unfortunately, I do not have a full report correctly pointing out,” said Ncikazi.
“They have not trained for some days, but they are still in the medical room to pass a late fitness test.
“So, currently I am not sure because I left, there was training in the morning so I did not see training, and I don’t have a full medical report.
“But I am praying that we are in full strength to play such a difficult side.”
Ncikazi is confident that Ezimnyama Ngenkani possess sufficient depth to manage the upcoming match should Ndah and Saleng not pass a late fitness test.
NCIKAZI BELIEVES THEY HAVE ENOUGH IN THE SQUAD TO REPLACE SALENG & NDAH
“If that doesn’t happen, I still think that we have a very capable team in their absence to be able to win, hence the team has got so many players to handle the situation in their absence.”
The eagerly awaited match will take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, before the sold-out crowd. The kickoff is set for 6:00 pm.
