Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has provided a fitness update on his two injured players, Monnapule Saleng and Arthur Sales.
Saleng is yet to make his Masandawana official debut after arriving at Chloorkop from Orlando Pirates in January. The winger had spent the first half of this season on loan at Orbit College FC, where he picked up a thigh injury.
That has delayed him from making his Sundowns debut as he recovers from the troubling quad. The Tshwane giants’ fans are keen to see how Saleng fits into their system following his surprise signing.
Sales, on the other hand, has missed Sundowns’ last three games, battling fitness issues. The Brazilians attacker got injured at a time when his combination with Brayan Leon was turning prolific.
‘THERE’S A LOT OF MISINFORMATION’: CARDOSO CLEARS THE AIR AROUND SUNDOWNS’ INJURY SITUATION
“It gives me the opportunity to address the situation regarding our injured players, as I’ve noticed a lot of public commentary. I am, of course, kept informed by our press officer and my technical assistants regarding the discussions surrounding certain players,” Cardoso stated.
“There is significant misinformation regarding who is available and who is not. It is vital that on matchdays, the public refers to the official medical report released by our media officer. This would help everyone understand which players can be selected. Often, there are heated arguments and discussions about players who are physically unable to play. There is no need for that kind of negativity, or ‘bad thoughts,’ as I would call them.
“Monnapule Saleng remains sidelined. His recovery is obviously progressing, but we will have to wait and see when he can truly assist the team again. Arthur Sales also remains out of contention.”
While Cardoso emphasised the need for specific traits in the roles vacated by his injured stars, he was quick to highlight the recent contributions of attacking midfielder Katlego ‘Tsiki’ Ntsabeleng.
“It is clear that those are positions [wing and striker] where we require high energy—characteristics that both Saleng and Sales bring to this squad,” the Portuguese coach explained. “However, I am very pleased because….Tsiki has been quite effective…. performing at a high level. Of course, he is a different profile to Arthur, but his contribution is valued.”
RELATED STORY: Sundowns move back to top of the log after win against AmaZulu