Orlando Pirates received a boost ahead of their return to the DStv Premiership, with Thabiso Lebitso being back in contention, while Makhehlene Makhaula and Evidence Makgopa have returned to training.
Lebitso missed Pirates’ 4-0 win over Hungry Lions in the Nedbank Cup after picking up a suspension in the Soweto Derby – a game where he made a name for himself after scoring a stunner against their bitter rivals.
However, he is back in contention, while Makhaula and Makgopa are also back in full training.
“Coach Jose Riveiro will also be able to call upon Thabiso Lebitso, who has served his one-match suspension and is again eligible for selection,” the club stated.
“Meanwhile, striker Evidence Makgopa is among those nearing a return to the match-day squad after a spell on the sidelines, while midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has resumed training after his early withdrawal from the game against Hungry Lions.”
However, assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi indicated the club is still dealing with some injuries, without giving away any names, but also insisted the quality in the squad is strong enough to replace any player.
“We’re playing against an in-form side, Sekhukhune. But from the break it becomes very important to manage the period,” he told the club’s media team.
“International players only arriving yesterday, injuries to some players but the beauty of thing at Pirates is the quality is so much within the squad that we can replace any player any day.
“The responsibility remains the same, is to play every match and win and we’re preparing for that and I’m confident that we must get three points from Babina Noko.”
Pirates face Sekhukhune, who have won all their DStv Premiership games in 2024 so far.